n. [ OE. huswif; hus house + wif wife. Cf. Hussy a housewife, Housewife. ] [ Written also housewife. ] 1. A female housekeeper; a woman who manages domestic affairs; a thirfty woman. “The bounteous huswife Nature.” Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

The huswife is she that do labor doth fall. Tusser. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A worthless woman; a hussy. [ Obs. ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. [ See Hussy a bag. ] A case for sewing materials. See Housewife. Cowper. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. To manage with frugality; -- said of a woman. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Like a huswife; capable; economical; prudent. -- adv. In a huswifely manner. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. The business of a housewife; female domestic economy and skill. Tusser. [ 1913 Webster ]