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Belle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ธ
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belle

[bษ›l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

beauty, charm

The term 'belle' refers to a beautiful woman, often idealized for her charm and social grace. It is commonly used in contexts such as social gatherings, where a belle is recognized as the most attractive or admired female. The word suggests not just physical beauty but also an appealing personality and poise. Historically, a belle would capture the attention and admiration of others, often embodying the standards of beauty of her time.

Synonyms

beauty, enchantress, goddess, stunner.

Examples of usage

  • She was the belle of the ball, captivating everyone with her grace.
  • In the small town, she was known as the local belle, admired for her kindness and beauty.
  • The belle of the summer festival won the hearts of many with her stunning dress.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In classic literature, 'belle' often appears as a character who embodies beauty and grace.
  • The phrase 'belle of the ball' describes the most attractive girl at a dance or social event.
  • The term has inspired art and poetry throughout history, celebrating beauty in various forms.

Pop Culture

  • Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' features Belle as the beautiful and intelligent protagonist.
  • The word 'belle' is frequently used in song lyrics to convey admiration for a womanโ€™s beauty.
  • Many beauty pageants include the term in their titles, celebrating the charm of contestants.

Fashion

  • The term has also influenced fashion, often used to describe styles that enhance beauty and elegance.
  • In the fashion industry, 'belle' can refer to a specific aesthetic that blends classic and contemporary beauty.

History

  • In the early 1900s, the term was commonly used in social circles to describe celebrated women.
  • The idea of the 'belle' has been tied to various societal expectations of beauty and femininity over the years.

Origin of 'belle'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the French word 'belle', meaning 'beautiful'.
  • The word has been used in English since the 18th century, influenced by French culture.
  • It can also refer to a woman admired for her qualities, not just looks.

The word 'belle' originates from the French term meaning 'beautiful.' It traces back to the Old French 'bele', which is derived from the Latin word 'bellus', meaning 'pretty' or 'handsome'. The use of 'belle' in English began around the early 19th century, as it entered the language through cultural exchanges between English and French societies. Initially, it was a term reserved for women of high social standing and beauty, often used in literary works and poetry, celebrating the ideals of femininity. Over time, the term has been embraced in various contexts, becoming a staple in descriptions of beauty pageants, social events, and romantic literature. Today, it is widely used in both casual and formal scenarios to denote a woman admired for her attractiveness, charm, and often alongside her social grace.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,417, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.