ENGLISH
REFERENCE

carlin

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈkɑɹɫɪn// car·lin

n. an old woman. This word is mostly used in Scotland and Northern England and can sometimes sound a bit rude or mean.

n. a woman, typically an elderly one. Often carries a derogatory or disparaging connotation; primarily found in Scots and Northern English dialects.


SIMPLE

The old carlin sat by the fire telling stories of the past.

CONTEXTUAL

In the local folklore, a withered carlin was said to guard the bridge during the winter months.

COMPLEX

The poet describes a group of carlins gathered at the market, their sharp tongues and weathered faces reflecting a lifetime of hardship in the coastal village.

Usage

Primarily a dialectal term; may be perceived as offensive depending on the intent and context.

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