Dictionary entry

Crone

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Crone (krōn), n. [OD. kronie, karonie, an old sheep, OF. carogne, F. charogne, carrion (also F. carogne ill-natured woman.). See Carrion, and Crony.] 1. An old ewe. Tusser.

2. An old woman; — usually in contempt.

But still the crone was constant to her note.

Dryden.

3. An old man; especially, a man who talks and acts like an old woman.

The old crone lived in a hovel,... which his master had given him.

W. Irving.

A few old battered crones of office.

Beaconsfield.