Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Sandra Day O'Connor: The first woman to serve as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (1981-2006).
   • Flannery O'Connor: A prominent American short-story writer and novelist of the mid-20th century, known for her Southern Gothic style.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Sandra Day O'Connor):

  • Justice O'Connor was often a pivotal swing vote on the Court.
  • O'Connor's appointment was a landmark moment for gender equality in the United States.

• Proper noun (Flannery O'Connor):

  • We are studying the works of Flannery O'Connor in my American literature class.
  • O'Connor's stories often explore themes of morality and grace.

Advanced Usage

• "An O'Connor-esque character": A character reminiscent of those created by Flannery O'Connor, often featuring grotesque elements or profound moral crises.
  • The novel's protagonist is an O'Connor-esque figure grappling with sudden, violent grace.

Variants and Related Words

• O'Connorian (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of Flannery O'Connor or her literary style.
  • The story's dark humor and religious undertones are distinctly O'Connorian.

Synonyms

• Justice O'Connor (specifically for Sandra Day O'Connor).
• Flannery O'Connor (specifically for the author).

Notes on Meaning

• The reference context provided specifies "United States writer (1925-1964)," which correctly identifies Flannery O'Connor. It is critical to note that "O'Connor" alone is an Irish surname. In common usage, especially in an American context, it most frequently refers to one of these two notable individuals. The intended referent is usually clear from the surrounding context (e.g., legal vs. literary discussion).

Noun

1. United States writer (1925-1964)