noun

1. any of a number of small, slender, mouselike insectivore mammals (esp. family Soricidae) with soft fur and a long, pointed snout
2. a scolding, evil-tempered woman

Etymology: ME schrewe, a malicious person < OE screawa, shrewmouse, akin to OHG scrawaz, dwarf, goblin, MHG schröuwel, devil < IE *(s)ker-: see shred