jezebel
LowLiterary, Biblical, Pejorative
Definition
Meaning
A shameless, promiscuous, or wicked woman.
A term used to describe a woman perceived as immoral, scheming, or manipulative, often with connotations of seduction and deception. In modern contexts, it can be used as a pejorative label for a woman who defies traditional gender norms or expectations, especially regarding sexual behaviour.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term originates from the biblical Phoenician queen Jezebel (1 & 2 Kings), wife of King Ahab of Israel, who promoted idol worship and was depicted as manipulative and evil. It carries heavy moral judgment and is considered highly offensive when applied to a person. Its use often reflects the speaker's cultural or religious values.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in denotation. Slightly more likely to be recognised in its biblical context in the US due to higher rates of religious adherence.
Connotations
Identical strong negative connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both, primarily found in literary contexts, historical discourse, or as a deliberate insult.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[They] called her a jezebel.[She] was branded a jezebel.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Paint one's face like Jezebel”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare and highly inappropriate.
Academic
Used in theological, historical, literary, or gender studies to discuss the archetype or biblical figure.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would be considered a severe insult.
Technical
Not applicable.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- He gave her a jezebel look of contempt.
American English
- She was accused of jezebel behaviour.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- (Not applicable - word is above CEFR A2 level.)
- In the story, the king was led astray by a jezebel.
- The journalist was unfairly labelled a jezebel for her outspoken views.
- The play deconstructs the 'jezebel' trope, exploring how society vilifies powerful women who defy convention.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'JEZEBEL' as a woman who 'JUST EZ' (easily) BREAKS Every Law (of propriety).
Conceptual Metaphor
IMMORALITY IS FILTH/DECAY, DECEPTION IS A MASK.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Не переводите буквально как «Иезавель» в небиблейском контексте — это будет непонятно. В качестве грубого оскорбления ближе по смыслу «распутница», «потаскуха», «стерва».
- В русском нет прямого эквивалента, несущего одновременно библейский отсыл и оскорбительную нагрузку.
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'Jezabel' or 'Jezebelle'.
- Using it as a neutral or positive term.
- Applying it to a man (extremely rare and non-standard).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'jezebel' LEAST likely to be found?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It is capitalised ('Jezebel') only when referring specifically to the biblical queen. The common noun meaning a shameless woman is in lowercase ('jezebel').
Its primary modern use is pejorative and offensive. In academic or analytical contexts (e.g., discussing archetypes), it may be used descriptively without direct insult, but it still carries heavy negative historical baggage.
No, it is quite rare. Its use is mostly confined to literary, historical, or deliberately archaic/forceful insults. It is not part of everyday neutral vocabulary.
In the biblical narrative (2 Kings 9:30), Jezebel 'painted her eyes' before her death. This detail became a core part of the stereotype, linking the term to the use of cosmetics for seductive or deceitful purposes.