1. an unmarried woman, typically an older woman beyond the usual age for marriage
Usage: often considered outdated or offensive
2. a woman whose occupation is spinning thread or yarn
Usage: historical; archaic

Examples

• The term spinster is considered outdated and potentially offensive in modern usage.
• In the 19th century, unmarried women were often referred to as spinsters.
• She rejected the label of spinster, preferring to be called an independent woman.
• Historically, a spinster was simply a woman who spun wool for a living.
• The old records listed her occupation as spinster.
• Many successful women chose to remain single rather than accept the spinster stereotype.