1. in Greek mythology, winged monsters with the heads of women and the bodies of birds
Usage: mythology
2. cruel, grasping, or unpleasant women
Usage: derogatory

Examples

• The ancient Greeks told stories of harpies who tormented mortals.
• In the myth, the harpies had sharp claws and fierce appetites.
• The painting depicted harpies swooping down from storm clouds.
• He called his demanding relatives a bunch of harpies.
• The novel portrayed the stepsisters as greedy harpies.
• She refused to be labeled as one of those office harpies.