The term "dragon lady" might conjure images of a character straight out of a mythical soap opera, complete with fire-breathing talents and an ability to fly through boardroom windows when needed. A "dragon lady" refers to a woman who is fiercely independent, powerfully assertive, and not someone you’d want to cross—especially if she’s your boss or, heaven forbid, your mother-in-law.
While the term has roots in old Hollywood stereotypes of mysterious and dangerous femme fatales, Aussies might use it with a wink and a nod to describe a woman who rules her domain with an iron fist and possibly a fiery gaze that could melt a meat pie at ten paces. She’s the type who manages to keep everyone in line with a sharp glance or a well-timed word, and while she might not literally breathe fire, her formidable presence is enough to keep everyone on their best behavior.
A "dragon lady" in Australia is often seen with admiration (and a healthy dose of respectful fear) as someone who isn’t to be trifled with. So, if you hear someone referred to as a "dragon lady," know that she’s likely calling the shots, charming the socks off allies, and maybe, just maybe
