Demimondaine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
demimondaine
[หdษmiหmษndeษชn ]
Definition
social class
A demimondaine refers to a woman who exists on the fringes of respectable society, often associated with a lifestyle of promiscuity and relationships with wealthy men. This term was especially prevalent in 19th-century France, capturing the essence of women who were neither fully part of high society nor completely marginalized.
Synonyms
courtesan, lady of the night, mistress.
Examples of usage
- The demimondaine navigated the complexities of high society.
- In the novel, the demimondaine was adored by the wealthy elite.
- She lived the life of a demimondaine, filled with luxury and scandal.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from French, with 'demi' meaning 'half' and 'mondaine' referring to 'worldly' or 'sophisticated'.
- In the late 19th century, demimondaines were often connected to wealthy patrons and lived in luxury while being looked down upon by mainstream society.
- These women frequently appeared in literature and art of the era, symbolizing the tension between societal norms and personal freedom.
Literature
- Demimondaines often appear as central characters in novels featuring themes of sexuality and social class, such as in 'Anna Karenina' by Leo Tolstoy.
- The character of 'Nana' in รmile Zola's novel of the same name represents the archetype of the demimondaine, highlighting her impact on society and individual lives.
- Such characters typically embody the struggle between societal expectations and personal desires, enriching the narratives they inhabit.
Culture
- During the Belle รpoque in France, demimondaines were celebrated for their beauty and wit, often attending and hosting salons where art and literature flourished.
- These women played an essential role in shaping modern notions of femininity and independence, challenging the constraints placed upon them.
- Although often marginalized, demimondaines became symbols of both glamour and scandal in the popular imagination, influencing fashion and style of the time.
Pop Culture
- Films and plays like 'La Belle Hรฉlรจne' and 'Chocolat' portray demimondaines, exploring their complex identities and societal perceptions.
- The fashion of demimondaines is often romanticized in modern culture, with vintage styles echoing their opulent dresses and elegant lifestyle.
- Contemporary interpretations continue to draw upon the allure and mystique surrounding these women, emphasizing their independence and resilience.
Origin of 'demimondaine'
The term 'demimondaine' is derived from the French language, where 'demi' translates to 'half' or 'partly,' and 'mondaine' refers to 'worldly' or 'of the world.' The word emerged in the 19th century during a time when societal norms around gender and sexuality were rapidly evolving. It specifically described women who lived in a world that was not fully accepted by mainstream high society but who still engaged in relationships and activities that catered to the wealthy. The demimondaine concept often highlighted the tensions between respectability and desire, and it reflected changing attitudes toward women's roles in society, often critiqued through literature and art of the period. This archetype persisted into modern times, influencing cultural representations of women who occupy ambiguous social positions.