bluestocking Definition

bluestocking
noun

1. often derog
A highly educated woman who is interested in serious academic subjects.

Etymology: 18c: the term originated when a group of London ladies (c.1750) held philosophical and literary meetings, in contrast to card-playing evening-parties, and came to be nicknamed the ‘Blue Stocking Society' because at least one gentleman would attend dressed informally in blue worsted stockings (as opposed to formal black silk).