Besom

Besom: Besom is an old Anglo-Saxon word for a broom made of twigs. However, besom might be more familiar to sport's fans for the broom used in curling. A book on curling was published in 1936 called: Mr. Besom Starts Curling. The besom was a common broom and has also been used metaphorically as a derogatory term for an old woman, perhaps referring to a witch that might ride a besom.

She was a spirited besom, ready to defend her property with a pitchfork in one hand and a dog whip in the other.

A Book for Today: Company of Liars by Karen Maitland