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Gamine: meaning, definitions and examples

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gamine

 

[ ɡæˈmiːn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

young girl

A gamine is a small, boyish, often mischievous girl who is carefree and spirited. The term typically refers to a type of young woman who embodies youthful charm and a free-spirited nature. Gamine can also imply a certain tomboyish quality, making it popular in descriptions of characters in literature and film. They often possess an alluring quality that combines innocence with cunning, intriguing those around them.

Synonyms

tomboy, urchin, waif

Examples of usage

  • She had the playful spirit of a gamine.
  • The actress played a gamine character in the film.
  • Gamine looks are in vogue this season.
  • Her gamine charm captured everyone's attention.

Translations

Translations of the word "gamine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 garota travessa

🇮🇳 चुलबुली लड़की

🇩🇪 saures Mädchen

🇮🇩 gadis nakal

🇺🇦 шалена дівчина

🇵🇱 psotna dziewczyna

🇯🇵 いたずらっ子の女の子

🇫🇷 fille espiègle

🇪🇸 chica traviesa

🇹🇷 yaramaz kız

🇰🇷 장난꾸러기 소녀

🇸🇦 فتاة مشاغبة

🇨🇿 nezbedná dívka

🇸🇰 nezbedná dievčina

🇨🇳 顽皮女孩

🇸🇮 nepridna deklica

🇮🇸 stríðni stúlka

🇰🇿 бұзақы қыз

🇬🇪 შეშლილი გოგონა

🇦🇿 şən qız

🇲🇽 chica traviesa

Etymology

The word 'gamine' originates from the French word 'gamin', which initially referred to a young boy or roguish child. Its usage evolved to encompass a sense of playfulness and mischievousness associated with youth. In the early 20th century, it became associated with the characteristics of a young girl who embodies both innocence and a certain level of defiance, often characterized by a boyish haircut or clothing. The term gained prominence in literature and film, often depicting the spunky female protagonist. As society has evolved, 'gamine' has retained its charm in describing a certain archetype of youthful femininity that is both alluring and independent.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,952, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.