Menage: meaning, definitions and examples

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menage

 

[mɛˈnɑːʒ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

household arrangement

A ménage refers to a domestic establishment or household, often including those who live together and share domestic responsibilities. It is usually associated with family life and the organization of a home and can also imply the management of household affairs.

Synonyms

domestic group, home, household.

Examples of usage

  • They had a large ménage that included several children and pets.
  • The ménage was well-organized, with everyone contributing to the chores.
  • In their ménage, they valued communication and cooperation.
  • The historical ménage often involved extended family living together.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the French term 'ménage', which means 'household'.
  • It originally traces back to the Latin word 'manere', meaning 'to dwell' or 'to remain'.
  • In English, 'menage' gained popularity in the 18th century, particularly in discussions about domestic arrangements.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, communal living arrangements can strengthen family ties and foster shared responsibilities.
  • The idea of a ménage à trois refers to three people living together, often in a romantic or sexual context, highlighting varying relationship dynamics.
  • Contemporary discussions about housing in urban areas often mention communal spaces, reflecting modern adaptations of the traditional 'menage'.

Literature

  • Famous literary works have explored themes of unconventional households, showcasing the dynamics within a 'menage'.
  • The concept appears in poetry and prose as a symbol of relationships that challenge societal norms.
  • Several novels use a 'menage' setting to delve into character interactions and complex social issues.

Psychology

  • Living in a 'menage' can greatly affect interpersonal relationships, influencing dynamics such as cooperation and conflict.
  • Group living situations can foster a strong sense of community but may also introduce challenges related to personal space and privacy.
  • Research shows that shared living can enhance emotional support systems, impacting overall well-being.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV shows often dramatize the lives of those in a 'menage', emphasizing the mix of relationships and individual stories.
  • Films sometimes portray 'menage' scenarios as comedies or dramas, reflecting societal views on love and living arrangements.
  • Social media conversations frequently engage with the idea of 'menage', showcasing diverse living styles and relationship choices.

Translations

Translations of the word "menage" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lar

🇮🇳 गृहस्थी

🇩🇪 Haushalt

🇮🇩 rumah tangga

🇺🇦 домашнє господарство

🇵🇱 gospodarstwo domowe

🇯🇵 家庭

🇫🇷 ménage

🇪🇸 hogar

🇹🇷 ev işleri

🇰🇷 가정

🇸🇦 أسرة

🇨🇿 domácnost

🇸🇰 domácnosť

🇨🇳 家务

🇸🇮 gospodinjstvo

🇮🇸 heimili

🇰🇿 отбасы

🇬🇪 სახლი

🇦🇿 ev təsərrüfatı

🇲🇽 hogar

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,829 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.