Definition of beldam

competent Definition: (adjective) having the skill and knowledge needed for a particular task; capable Petersons.com

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< belch

beleaguer >

bel·dam or bel·dame    (bldm, -dm) KEY  

NOUN:

An old woman, especially one who is considered ugly.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, grandmother : bel, indicating respect (from Old French bel, fine, from Latin bellus; see deu- ² in Indo-European roots) + dame, lady ; see dame

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