Spinster - Definition - Law Dictionary Home Dictionary Definition spinster

Definition :

Spinster, an unmarried woman, so called because she was supposed to be occupied in spinning.

In Scotland the wife's or cognate side of the family is termed the 'spindle-side,' in contradistinction to the agnate or husband's side, which is denominated the 'spear' or 'sword-side.' The armorial bearings of the families of widows and spinsters are painted on this spindle, which is popularly termed a lozenge