{ Bel″damBel″dame } (�), n. [Pref. bel-, denoting relationship + dame mother: cf. F. belledame fair lady, It. belladonna. See Belle, and Dame.]
1. Grandmother; — corresponding to belsire.
To show the beldam daughters of her daughter.
Shak.
2. An old woman in general; especially, an ugly old woman; a hag.
Around the beldam all erect they hang.
Akenside.