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Chaperoning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chaperoning

[ˈʃæpəroʊnɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

supervision activity

Chaperoning is the act of overseeing and accompanying individuals, often in a social setting, such as a school event, dance, or field trip. The purpose of chaperoning is to ensure safety, provide guidance, and maintain order among the group being supervised. Chaperones are typically adults who are responsible for the welfare of the participants, especially minors. This role may involve coordinating activities, enforcing rules, and ensuring that all attendees behave appropriately.

Synonyms

monitoring, overseeing, supervising.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher was chaperoning the students on the field trip.
  • Parents often volunteer for chaperoning school dances.
  • She spent the evening chaperoning her younger siblings at the party.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'chaperone' comes from the French word 'chaperon,' meaning hood or cape, which was worn by women and symbolized protection.
  • In the 18th century, the concept of chaperoning was especially important in upper-class social settings to ensure propriety during outings.
  • Initially, chaperones were often elder relatives or friends tasked with monitoring young women in public places.

Education

  • In schools, chaperoning is crucial during field trips to ensure student safety and adherence to rules.
  • Chaperones often help make activities more enjoyable by bringing organization and oversight, allowing children to explore safely.
  • Parent volunteers frequently serve as chaperones, balancing the role of authority with fun experiences for students.

Pop Culture

  • Chaperoning is commonly depicted in movies and television as a sometimes humorous or troublesome role, often associated with adolescence.
  • The 'Senior Prom' in American culture frequently features chaperones to oversee young couples and maintain a sense of order.
  • Songs and stories often reference the awkwardness and strictness of chaperones, highlighting their role in youth activities.

Social Dynamics

  • Chaperoning can affect group behavior, as participants often behave differently when they know an adult is present.
  • Having someone in a chaperoning role can encourage positive interactions among peers by providing a sense of security.
  • This role is essential in establishing boundaries and expectations, especially in settings involving young people.

Psychology

  • The presence of a chaperone can reduce anxiety among younger individuals by providing reassurance during social interactions.
  • Research indicates that having a trusted adult nearby can lead to increased confidence in children as they engage in new experiences.
  • Chaperoning helps facilitate social learning, as young people model behavior and norms observed in responsible adults.

Origin of 'chaperoning'

The term 'chaperon' originated from the Old French word 'chaperon', meaning 'hood' or 'little cap', which referred to a cap worn over the head. The word initially described a head covering that was typical in medieval times. By the late 19th century, the term evolved in English to refer to a person who accompanies and guides someone else, particularly in social settings where protection and supervision are essential. The modern use of 'chaperoning' in various contexts, such as events involving minors, derives from this historical idea of providing safety and oversight. Over the years, the role of a chaperone became important in contexts such as school trips, parties, and dances, where it is crucial to ensure the appropriate behavior and safety of participants.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,111, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.