damosel (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "damosel" is a noun.

Phonetic Transcription

/dæməˌzɛl/

Meaning and Usage

"Damosel" is an archaic term used primarily in medieval literature. It is derived from the Old French word "damoiselle" and refers to a young unmarried woman or a maiden, often of noble birth. The term has fallen out of everyday use but can still be found in historical texts and fantasy literature. Its frequency of use is very low in contemporary language, primarily appearing in written contexts rather than oral speech.

Example Sentences

1. In the grand hall, the damosel awaited her knight, dressed in a gown of the finest silk.

2. En la gran sala, la damosel esperaba a su caballero, vestida con un vestido de la mejor seda.

3. The damosel's beauty was renowned throughout the land, attracting suitors from distant kingdoms.

4. La belleza de la damosel era conocida en toda la tierra, atrayendo pretendientes de reinos lejanos.

5. Legends spoke of the brave knight who would rescue the damosel from the dragon's lair.

6. Las leyendas hablaban del valiente caballero que rescataría a la damosel de la guarida del dragón.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "damosel" itself is not commonly used in modern idiomatic expressions, it is integral to many literary motifs and expressions related to chivalry and medieval romance. Here are a few examples:

1. Damosel in distress: The classic trope of a noble young woman who needs rescue.

2. The knight rode forth to save the damosel in distress from her captors.

   • El caballero salió a salvar a la damosel en apuros de sus captores.

3. A noble damosel: A phrase used to refer to a woman of high virtue and social standing.

4. Everyone spoke of her as a noble damosel, worthy of admiration and respect.

   • Todos hablaban de ella como una noble damosel, digna de admiración y respeto.

5. For the lovesick damosel: Referring to a young woman who is in love, often lamenting her situation.

6. The ballad sung for the lovesick damosel echoed through the empty halls.
   • La balada cantada por la damosel amorosa resonó por los pasillos vacíos.

Etymology

The term "damosel" originates from the Old French "damoiselle," which itself comes from "damoise" (lady) and is related to "dame" (lady). The break between "damoiselle" and "damosel" reflects both phonological and grammatical changes through time.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: maiden, damsel, young lady
Antonyms: woman, matron