What is meant by “Petticoat Government”?

“Petticoat Government” is a term historically used, sometimes pejoratively, to describe a government that is run by a woman or where women hold significant influence over the decisions. The word "petticoat" refers to a woman’s undergarment, symbolizing female authority in this context. While outdated and considered sexist by modern standards, the term appeared in older literature and political discourse to highlight female governance or strong influence by a female figure, often in monarchies or aristocratic settings.