Definition of "harpy" in English

noun

1. (mythology) A mythological creature generally depicted as a bird-of-prey with the head of a maiden, a face pale with hunger and long claws on her hands personifying the destructive power of storm winds.

2. (derogatory) A shrewish woman.

3. One who is rapacious or ravenous; an extortioner.

   • c. 1772, Oliver Goldsmith, letter to Mrs. Bunbury The harpies about me all pocket the pool.

4. Any of a number of eagle-like birds of prey of the subfamily Harpiinae, especially the species Harpia harpyja.

5. The European moor buzzard or marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus).