Meaning of "damoiselle" in English

In English, "damoiselle" is an archaic term that was used to refer to a young unmarried woman of noble birth. The word originates from Old French, reflecting a societal structure where lineage and status were significant identifiers. It is synonymous with titles like "young lady" or "maiden" but carries a connotation of medieval etiquette and chivalry, emphasizing grace and refinement. The term has largely fallen out of use, reserved mainly for historical or literary contexts where authenticity in period depiction is important.

Meaning of "damoiselle" in French

In French, "damoiselle" was historically used to denote a young noblewoman, somewhat akin to the English "damsel" or "maiden." Similar to its English counterpart, the term is considered archaic and echoes a time when social hierarchy and courtesy were strongly emphasized. It once implied a sense of respect and status, often used in medieval literature and references. Although obsolete in contemporary use, understanding this term aids in comprehending historical texts and the cultural nuances of past French aristocracy.

Pronunciation of "damoiselle" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [ˈdæm.wə.zɛl]

Pronunciation Variations: In English, the term "damoiselle" does not have significant dialectical variations, as it is primarily a literary or historical term. Its pronunciation tends to remain consistent across different English-speaking regions.

Pronunciation of "damoiselle" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [da.mwa.zɛl]

Pronunciation Variations: Like in English, "damoiselle" in French also does not exhibit marked regional variations due to its historical nature. It maintains a classic pronunciation style inspired by Old French phonetics.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The knight bowed before the damoiselle.
    (Le chevalier s'inclina devant la damoiselle.)

  2. The tale spoke of a brave damoiselle who saved the kingdom.
    (Le conte parlait d'une courageuse damoiselle qui sauva le royaume.)

  3. In her dreams, she was often a damoiselle at a grand feast.
    (Dans ses rêves, elle était souvent une damoiselle à un grand festin.)

  4. The portrait depicted a serene damoiselle from a bygone era.
    (Le portrait représentait une damoiselle sereine d'une époque révolue.)

  5. The old castle ruins reminded them of damoiselles and knights.
    (Les ruines du vieux château leur rappelaient des damoiselles et des chevaliers.)

  6. She dressed as a medieval damoiselle for the costume ball.
    (Elle s'habilla comme une damoiselle médiévale pour le bal costumé.)

  7. The legend tells of a fair damoiselle lost in the woods.
    (La légende raconte une belle damoiselle perdue dans les bois.)

  8. He wrote poetry inspired by the noble damoiselle.
    (Il écrivit de la poésie inspirée par la noble damoiselle.)

  9. The book described the life of a young damoiselle in the court.
    (Le livre décrivait la vie d'une jeune damoiselle à la cour.)

  10. The play featured a strong-willed damoiselle who defied tradition.
    (La pièce mettait en scène une damoiselle déterminée qui défiait la tradition.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "damoiselle" in English

Synonyms: maiden, damsel, young lady, lass, female, girl, lady

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: nobility, aristocrat, gentlewoman, miss

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "damoiselle" in French

Synonyms: demoiselle, fillette, jeune fille, pucelle

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: noblesse, aristocrate, gente dame

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