noun
older unmarried woman; spinster
Wasei-eigo from 'high miss'. Often carries a dated or slightly sensitive nuance; use with care. In modern contexts, more neutral terms like 独身女性 or 未婚女性 are preferred.
wasei-eigo (Japanese-coined English), from high miss
彼女はハイミスと呼ばれるのを嫌がる。
She dislikes being called an old maid.
昭和の小説にはハイミスという言葉がよく出てくる。
The word 'high miss' often appears in Showa-era novels.
Wasei-eigo from English 'high' + 'miss', coined in Japan. The exact origin is uncertain, but it likely emerged in the early to mid-20th century.