Emily Dickinson Lexicon
Definition for BEL'DAM
BEL'DAM, n. [Fr. belle, fine, handsome, and dame, lady. It seems to be used in contempt, or as a cant term.]
- An old woman. – Shak. Spenser seems to have used the word in its true sense for good dame.
- A hag. – Dryden. Shak.
Return to page 49 of the letter “B”.