Search Dictionary
Definition of henpecked

henpecked

/ˈhɛnˌpɛkt/
hen · pecked
JUMP TO:

henpecked Lexical Profile

henpecked Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Continually criticized, nagged, and dominated by one's wife or female partner (used especially of a man).

Example

"In the classic sitcom, the main character is portrayed as a timid, henpecked husband who always yields to his wife's demands."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for henpecked
Antonyms
View all antonyms for henpecked

Word Nuance & Usage

This term carries dated, gender-stereotyped connotations and is typically used in informal or humorous contexts to describe a husband dominated by his wife.

• Nearby Words

henley
henna
henpeck
henpecked
henry
hentai
hepatica

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 17th century from the image of a domestic rooster being repeatedly pecked and harassed into submission by a female hen.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Henpecked. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/henpecked
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.