Definition of the word goody

The word "goody" is an archaic term that originated in the Middle English language during the 14th century. It primarily referred to a young unmarried woman, particularly one who lived a virtuous and chaste life. The term was often used as a diminutive form of "good" or "good woman," which highlights the perception that such qualities were particularly valuable in young unmarried women during that time. The term "goody" was also sometimes used dismissively or pejoratively, especially by men, to denigrate women who were seen as prudish, overly virtuous, or perceived as a threat to male authority or sexuality. The use of the term continued into the 18th century, after which it gradually fell out of common use as societal norms around gender roles and sexuality began to shift. Today, the term is largely considered obsolete and is rarely, if ever, used in everyday language.