Coquette Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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coquette
[kÉËkÉt ]
Definitions
flirtatious person
A coquette is a flirtatious person, especially a woman who uses her charms to manipulate men's emotions and desires. Coquettes are often skilled at playing the game of love, using their looks, wit, and charm to attract and keep the attention of others.
Synonyms
flirt, seductress, tease.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| coquette |
Used in a formal or literary context to describe a woman who flirts in a playful or light-hearted manner.
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| flirt |
Commonly used in general conversation to describe someone who engages in playful and often superficial romantic or sexual behavior.
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| tease |
Often used in informal settings to describe someone who playfully provokes or leads someone on without serious intention. This can sometimes have a negative connotation if it leads to hurt feelings.
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| seductress |
Has a dramatic and often slightly negative connotation, referring to a woman who uses her charms to seduce someone, often with a more serious or manipulative intent.
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Examples of usage
- She was known as the town's biggest coquette, leading many men on with her flirtatious behavior.
- Despite her reputation as a coquette, she claimed that she was just naturally friendly and outgoing.
small, frivolous woman
In another sense, a coquette can also refer to a small or frivolous woman who is more concerned with her appearance and social status than with serious matters. These coquettes are often seen as shallow and superficial, focusing on material possessions and external beauty.
Synonyms
dandy, dilettante, fop.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| coquette |
Used to describe a woman who flirts playfully to attract attention and admiration.
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| dandy |
Used for a man who places particular importance on his appearance and style, often in an affected manner.
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| fop |
Describes a man overly concerned with his clothes and appearance, often used negatively and implies vanity.
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| dilettante |
Refers to someone who has an interest in arts or a particular subject but without serious commitment or deep knowledge, can be used negatively.
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Examples of usage
- She was dismissed as a coquette by the other women in the group, who viewed her as too focused on her looks and clothes.
- Her reputation as a coquette made it difficult for her to be taken seriously in professional settings.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In literature, you can find characters who embody the coquette archetype, like Daisy Buchanan in 'The Great Gatsby'.
- Many classic songs portray the coquette as a charming temptress, adding romance and intrigue.
- The concept of the coquette has also inspired fashion trends, with playful and flirty clothing styles.
Psychology
- The behavior of a coquette may stem from a desire for validation and attention, showcasing the complexities of attraction.
- Flirting, as a coquette does, involves social cues that can enhance connection and relationships.
- Studies indicate that playful flirting can be a fun way to build rapport and contribute to bonding in social interactions.
Literature
- In the realm of literature, the coquette has been celebrated and critiqued in various works across time, illustrating societal norms of femininity.
- Famous literary works often depict the tension between the coquette's charm and the chaos it can bring to relationships.
- The character of Emma Woodhouse in Jane Austen's novels often reflects coquette traits, navigating her friendships and romantic interests.
History
- During the Enlightenment, the coquette emerged as a popular figure in salons, where women would engage in witty conversation and flirtation.
- Historical attitudes toward coquettes have varied widely, from admiration to scorn, reflecting societal values on gender and relationships.
- The coquette was often positioned as a critique against demure or submissive women, challenging expectations of female behavior.
Origin of 'coquette'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'coquette' comes from the French word 'coquet', which means 'flirtatious'.
- Initially used in the 17th century, this word also has roots in the Spanish word 'coqueta'.
- It was originally used to describe a male flirt before becoming associated with women.
The term 'coquette' originated in French, where it was used to describe a woman who flirts or plays with men's affections. It entered the English language in the 17th century and has since been used to refer to both flirtatious individuals and those who are superficial and concerned with appearances. The image of the coquette has evolved over time, with some seeing her as a charming seductress and others as a shallow and vain character.
See also: coquetry.