1. In Greek mythology, a creature with the head and body of a woman and the wings and claws of a bird.
Usage: mythology; often capitalized when referring to specific mythological figures
2. A grasping, unscrupulous, or predatory woman; a woman regarded as cruel or malicious.
Usage: informal; derogatory; often considered offensive

Examples

• In Homer's Odyssey, harpies were sent to torment Phineus by snatching his food.
• The ancient Greeks depicted harpies as winged monsters with human faces.
• She was called a harpy by her enemies for her ruthless business tactics.
• The mythology textbook included illustrations of harpies from classical art.
• Harpies appear in many medieval and Renaissance paintings as symbols of greed.