King James Bible Dictionary

(Heb. pelek, a "circle"), the instrument used for twisting threads by a whirl (Proverbs 31:19).

Proverbs 31:19

DISTAFF, noun

1. The staff of a spinning-wheel, to which a bunch of flax or tow is tied, and from which the thread is drawn.

She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff Proverbs 31:19.

2. Figuratively, a woman, or the female sex.

His crown usurped, a distaff on the throne.

DISTAFF-THISTLE, noun A species of thistle; a name of the Atraetylis, and of the Carthamus, or false saffron.