Definition

1. Noun:
   • A wife who manages a household while her husband earns the family income: This term refers to a married woman who is responsible for the domestic affairs, organization, and management of the home, typically in a context where her spouse is the primary financial provider.

Usage

• The term "lady of the house" is used to denote the female head of a household, emphasizing her role in managing the home and domestic staff, if any. It is a somewhat traditional or formal term.
• It is typically used as a subject or object in a sentence to identify or refer to the woman in this role.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The lady of the house welcomed all the guests with great warmth.
  • As the lady of the house, she oversaw all the preparations for the dinner party.
  • Please direct your inquiry to the lady of the house.

Advanced Usage

• The term can carry connotations of traditional gender roles, social status, and domestic authority within a family structure.
• It is sometimes used in historical contexts or in literature to describe a character's position.

Variants and Related Words

• Homemaker (n): A person, often irrespective of gender, who manages the household. (This is a more modern and neutral term).
• Housewife (n): A married woman whose main occupation is managing the household. (This is a direct synonym but can be considered less formal).
• Mistress of the house (n): A very similar term, often used interchangeably with "lady of the house."

Synonyms

• Housewife
• Homemaker
• Mistress of the house

Antonyms

• Breadwinner (n): A person who earns the primary income for a family.
• Lord of the house / Master of the house (n): The traditional male counterpart.

Related Idioms

• To wear the pants in the family: (Idiom) To be the dominant decision-maker in a household. (Note: This idiom is not specific to the target word but relates to household roles).
• To rule the roost: (Idiom) To be in charge. (This can apply to the person managing a household).

Noun

1. a wife who manages a household while her husband earns the family income