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Chatelaine: meaning, definitions and examples

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chatelaine

 

[ ˈʃæt.ə.leɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

historical term

A chatelaine is a decorative belt hook or clasp worn by women, typically in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was used to attach various small items such as keys, sewing tools, and household utensils to a belt or waistband. In a broader sense, the term can also refer to the female head of a household, particularly in historical contexts, where she managed the domestic affairs and was responsible for the household staff. This role was often associated with the upper classes during feudal times.

Synonyms

belt hook, clasp, household manager, keychain

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautifully ornate chatelaine at the gala.
  • The chatelaine hung from her waist, jingling softly as she moved.
  • In the museum, there was an exhibit showcasing vintage chatelaines.
  • The chatelaine was a symbol of her authority in the household.

Translations

Translations of the word "chatelaine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chatelaine

🇮🇳 महिला

🇩🇪 Hausfrau

🇮🇩 perempuan rumah tangga

🇺🇦 господиня

🇵🇱 gospodyni

🇯🇵 家政婦

🇫🇷 maîtresse de maison

🇪🇸 ama de casa

🇹🇷 ev hanımı

🇰🇷 주부

🇸🇦 ربّة منزل

🇨🇿 domácí pani

🇸🇰 domáca pani

🇨🇳 主妇

🇸🇮 gospodinja

🇮🇸 húsfreyja

🇰🇿 үй иесі

🇬🇪 სახლი

🇦🇿 evdar qadın

🇲🇽 ama de casa

Etymology

The word 'chatelaine' originates from the French word 'châtelaine', which means 'female lord of a castle'. It is derived from 'château', meaning 'castle' in French. Historically, the term referred to women who managed castles and estates during the Middle Ages, particularly in Europe, where they played crucial roles in the administration of household affairs. As time progressed into the 17th and 18th centuries, the word began to also describe the ornamental attachable device worn at the waist, which symbolized a woman's domestic power and organizational skills. Chatelaines became increasingly popular items that reflected the wealth and sophistication of their owners, often adorned with intricate designs, precious metals, and even gemstones. The idea of the chatelaine as both a functional tool and a status symbol continued into the Victorian era, cementing its place in fashion and domestic culture.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,068, 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.