Meaning of “Otsubone(お局)”

“Otsubone(お局)” means a woman in the workplace who has been employed for a long time, essentially runs the workplace, and is intimidating to oppose. This word is used in negative way, and is often used as gossip.

Originally “Otsubone(お局)” means a high-ranking woman with significant responsibilities in the Ooku of the Edo era. However, in these days, it is used with the above meaning.

Example Conversation

A: Is there anything I should be careful about when joining the company?
B: Absolutely, never go against “Otsubone(お局)”.

A: 入社に当たって気を付けたほうがいいことってありますか？
B: 絶対に、お局には逆らうな。