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Dames: meaning, definitions and examples

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dames

 

[ deΙͺmz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

plural form

The term 'dames' is a plural form of 'dame', which refers to a woman of dignity or authority, often used in a humorous or affectionate context. In British English, it can also refer to a woman of rank or title.

Synonyms

girls, ladies, women

Examples of usage

  • The ladies in the hall were referred to as dames.
  • She was a dame of honor at the event.
  • The film featured several strong dames as lead characters.

Etymology

The word 'dame' originates from the Latin word 'domina', which means 'lady' or 'mistress'. It was used in medieval England to denote a woman of rank, often married to a knight or nobleman. The term became more colloquial over time and began to be used to address women in a more informal or affectionate context. In British culture, 'Dame' has become a title of respect awarded to women who have made significant contributions in various fields, such as arts or public service. This usage became formalized in the 20th century as a counterpart to the male honorific 'Sir'. The evolution of the term reflects broader changes in social attitudes toward women and their roles in society.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,085, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.