Words rooted in the Latin “matron” often show up to describe older women, or to chide younger woman who don’t dress stylishly. “Matronly” counts as a devastating critique on the reality show, “Project Runway.” Recently, I came across the word used as a verb. Style mavens Tracy London and Clinton Kelly advise women not to wear semi-sheer stockings because they can “matronize” an outfit in a hurry.
According to the OED, originally matron described a married woman of mature years. Only later did it pick up the unpleasant attributes of censorious, bossy, frumpy, and broad in the beam. But perhaps this is not surprising, since almost any word associated with age comes with negative baggage. Even to call someone “mature” can be read as an insult. This is why I think it is so important to find positive expressions for being a grown up woman.
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