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Nubile Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nubile

[ˈnjuːbaɪl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

marriageable age

The term 'nubile' refers to a young woman who is considered to be of marriageable age, typically implying she is both physically attractive and mature enough for marriage. It is often used in literature and discussions about sociocultural norms surrounding marriage and relationships. The word can carry connotations relating to beauty and desirability within certain contexts.

Synonyms

attracive, eligible, marriageable.

Examples of usage

  • In traditional societies, a nubile daughter was often seen as a valuable asset.
  • The novel depicted the lives of nubile girls in a changing world.
  • Nubile young women often faced pressure to marry early.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the concept of being nubile is tied closely to expectations around marriage and family roles.
  • Literature often explores the themes of nubility, with young characters facing societal pressures related to marriage.
  • The age at which someone is considered nubile varies widely across different cultures and countries.

Psychology

  • Entering adulthood can evoke mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety, particularly regarding societal expectations.
  • Studies suggest that societal pressures associated with being nubile can impact self-esteem among young women.
  • The transition into adulthood, often linked with the concept of nubility, can signify a search for identity beyond societal roles.

Literature

  • Classic literature often depicts nubile characters as symbols of beauty, temptation, or societal expectations.
  • Authors like Shakespeare and Austen frequently explore themes of marriage and the status of young women in society.
  • Modern narratives engage with nubility in contexts of agency, examining how young women navigate societal norms.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and shows often portray young, nubile characters in romantic plots, emphasizing youth and desire.
  • In fashion, the idea of being nubile can sometimes intersect with beauty standards, influencing trends and marketing.
  • Social media has cultivated new discussions around the pressures of being nubile, focusing on personal choice versus tradition.

Origin of 'nubile'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'nubilis', meaning 'marriageable'.
  • Historically, it has been used to describe young women during their coming of age, particularly in marriage contexts.
  • The suffix '-ile' implies capability or suitability, reinforcing the notion of readiness.

The word 'nubile' originates from the Latin word 'nubilus', which means clouded or veiled, derived from 'nubes', meaning cloud. In its early usages, it referred to a state of being in a soft, delicate condition, likened to the appearance of a cloud. Over time, the meaning shifted to signify a young woman suitable for marriage, encapsulating the notions of youth, beauty, and readiness for domestic life. The morphological journey of 'nubile' can also be seen in its association with pubescence and the onset of womanhood, becoming a term often employed in discussions around cultural expectations and marital prospects. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, 'nubile' became more commonly used in literature, especially in contexts that explored themes of love, marriage, and socio-familial structures.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,647, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.