It's used to refer to a teacher of a specific gender, and it gives a positive feeling especially when representing a female mentor, leader, or a respected senior. It can also be used metaphorically, like "Our team leader is the best teacher."

Because women's roles have historically been important in the field of education, it's familiarly accepted in many cultures. It can symbolize the image of a warm and wise female teacher from movies or dramas, and its meaning is gradually expanding to be an icon for a professional female leader.