Dame: meaning, definitions and examples

In informal American English, it can refer to a woman, particularly in old-fashioned or somewhat dated language. Can have a negative or outdated connotation.

• The detectives in the old movie kept calling every woman a dame.
• Back in the day, the city was full of men and dames enjoying the nightlife.

A respectful or polite term used to refer to women, often used to denote elegance, nobility, or high social standing. Can be used both formally and informally.

• The lady at the charity event was both gracious and kind.
• Please, ladies and gentlemen, take your seats.

A more specific term describing the spouse of a knight, usually used in historical or formal contexts.

• The knight's wife accompanied him to the royal banquet.
• In the medieval era, the knight's wife often managed the household.

Used to describe a person who holds a high rank or office, often used in formal or official contexts.

• The dignitaries were seated at the front during the graduation ceremony.
• A number of international dignitaries attended the state dinner.

In informal and somewhat dated American English, it can refer to a woman, often with a hint of sexism or casualness. It is not commonly used in modern language.

• Back in the 1920s, people referred to women as dames in old gangster movies.
• She's quite the dame, ain't she?

Refers to a woman who is the head of a family or tribe. It can be used both informally and formally, often implying authority and respect within a familial context.

• Grandma is the matriarch of our family.
• She was considered the matriarch of the community.

Used to describe a woman who is highly respected or considered the most prominent in a particular field. It is often used in professional or formal contexts.

• She is the doyenne of fashion journalism.
• The conference featured a speech by the doyenne of classical music.

Informal and modern term used to describe a woman in a position of authority or management. It is usually used in a positive or empowering context.

• She is our lady boss and runs the company like clockwork.
• In our office, the lady boss is both respected and admired.

Used in British English to denote a woman with a title or in American English as a slang term for a woman, often considered old-fashioned or slightly disrespectful.

• She was made a dame by the Queen for her contributions to the arts
• In the old movies, the detective always had a scene with a mysterious dame

General term referring to an adult female human, suitable for formal and informal situations.

• The woman at the counter helped me find what I needed
• In the meeting, a woman presented the new business strategy

Polite term used to refer to a woman, often implying respect and courtesy. It can also refer to a woman of high social standing.

• She's such a kind and gentle lady
• At the charity event, a lady in a beautiful dress gave a speech

Informal term for a girl or young woman, predominantly used in American English.

• She's a fun gal to hang out with on weekends
• That gal has a lot of energy and spirit