Ladylike: meaning, definitions and examples

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ladylike

 

[ ˈleɪdiˌlaɪk ]

Adjective / Adverb
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Behaving in a polite, dignified, and elegant way, typically associated with traditional ideas of femininity.

Synonyms

elegant, graceful, polite, refined.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ladylike

Used to describe a woman who behaves in a very traditional, proper, and feminine way. Often associated with manners and decorum.

  • She always sits so ladylike, with her legs crossed and back straight.
  • Her ladylike demeanor made her stand out at the formal event.
elegant

Describes someone or something that is stylish, sophisticated, and tasteful. Often used for fashion, appearances, and actions.

  • The bride looked elegant in her white gown.
  • Her speech was so well-crafted and elegant.
graceful

Refers to someone or something that moves smoothly and easily, with a pleasing appearance or quality. Commonly used for physical movements.

  • The ballerina's performance was exceptionally graceful.
  • He made a graceful exit from the conversation.
refined

Used to describe someone who is well-mannered and has good taste. This word also implies a certain level of sophistication and education.

  • His refined tastes in art and music were evident.
  • She spoke in a refined manner, impressive to everyone present.
polite

Describes someone who behaves in a manner that is considerate and respectful towards others. Often used in everyday social interactions.

  • She was very polite and thanked everyone for coming.
  • The waiter was polite and attended to our needs promptly.

Examples of usage

  • She crossed her legs in a ladylike manner.
  • She always speaks in a ladylike tone.
Context #2 | Adverb

manner

In a manner that is characteristic of or suitable for a lady.

Synonyms

elegantly, gracefully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ladylike

Best used to describe behavior or manners that are considered refined and appropriate for a polite woman. It emphasizes traditional feminine qualities.

  • She smiled in a very ladylike manner.
  • Her ladylike grace impressed everyone at the party.
gracefully

Refers to movements that are smooth, controlled, and attractive. It is often used in the context of physical actions like dancing or walking.

  • The ballerina moved gracefully across the stage.
  • He accepted the defeat gracefully.
elegantly

Used to describe someone or something that is stylish and sophisticated. It often refers to clothing, decoration, or behavior.

  • She dressed elegantly for the gala.
  • The dinner table was set elegantly with fine china and crystal.

Examples of usage

  • She walked ladylike across the room.
  • She sat ladylike at the table.

Translations

Translations of the word "ladylike" in other languages:

🇵🇹 feminina

🇮🇳 नारी-सुलभ

🇩🇪 damenhaft

🇮🇩 anggun

🇺🇦 жіночний

🇵🇱 damski

🇯🇵 淑やか

🇫🇷 féminine

🇪🇸 femenina

🇹🇷 hanımefendi gibi

🇰🇷 숙녀다운

🇸🇦 أنثوي

🇨🇿 dámský

🇸🇰 dámsky

🇨🇳 淑女般的

🇸🇮 žensko

🇮🇸 kvenlegur

🇰🇿 әйелдік

🇬🇪 ქალური

🇦🇿 qadınsayağı

🇲🇽 femenina

Etymology

The term 'ladylike' originated in the 19th century and is a combination of the words 'lady' and 'like'. It reflects the societal expectations of how women should behave with grace, elegance, and politeness. The concept of being ladylike has evolved over time, but it continues to be associated with traditional notions of femininity.

See also: lady.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,108 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.