Odalisque - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

historical context

An odalisque is a female slave or concubine in a harem, particularly in Ottoman Turkish culture. The term is often associated with the artistic representations of such women in Western art. These figures were generally depicted as beautiful and languorous, reclining in luxurious settings. Over time, the odalisque has become a symbol of exoticism and sensuality in art and literature, often reflecting Western fantasies about the East.

Synonyms

concubine, harem girl, slave girl.

Examples of usage

The artist's depiction of the odalisque captivated viewers.
Many odalisques were skilled in music and dance.
Literature often romanticizes life in the harem with its odalisques.

Interesting Facts

Art

Famous artists like Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres painted numerous works featuring odalisques, showcasing a blend of beauty and exoticism.
The depiction often emphasized themes of sensuality and leisure, influencing Western art movements such as Romanticism.
In modern art, the portrayal of odalisques is often critiqued for its representation of the female form under the male gaze.

Literature

Odalisque characters appear in 19th-century literature, often embodying themes of desire and mystique in Orientalist works.
Writers like Gustave Flaubert and Pierre Loti used odalisque imagery to explore complex relationships and cultural encounters.
The term also signifies a role in narratives that highlight the contrast between freedom and confinement in women's lives.

Cultural Significance

The concept influenced fashion, where women’s clothing and styles echo the luxurious, flowing fabrics often associated with odalisques.
In contemporary discussions, the term raises awareness about cultural appropriation and representations of women in art and media.
Odalisque imagery has adapted in various cultures to reflect evolving views on femininity and autonomy.

Pop Culture

The odalisque has inspired modern music videos, fashion campaigns, and photography, depicting a blend of exotic beauty and leisure.
In films, the odalisque figure is sometimes used to highlight themes of exoticism, providing a lens into cultural fascination.
Video games and animations occasionally reference the odalisque, using its visual elements to create alluring characters.

Origin of 'odalisque'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Turkish 'odalık', meaning 'room' or 'chamber', indicating a female attendant's role in a harem.
It was adopted into French in the 19th century, reflecting European fascination with Eastern culture and art.
Initially referred to women serving in the harem, the term evolved to signify women depicted in reclining positions in art.

The term 'odalisque' originates from the Ottoman Turkish word 'odalık', which means 'chamber' or 'room'. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Western artists and writers began to adopt the term to describe the exotic women found within the harem cultures of the Ottoman Empire. These women were often depicted in a way that emphasized their allure and luxury, reflecting Western perceptions and fantasies about the East. The portrayal of odalisques in art often served to reinforce stereotypes about Eastern women, marking them as both sensual and submissive. This cultural representation played a significant role in the Orientalist movement, influencing how the Western world viewed not only harem culture but also the broader socio-political dynamics of the Eastern societies at the time.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,794, 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.

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40791 tattletale
40792 gentrifying
40793 ululation
40794 odalisque
40795 swashing
40796 fizzling
40797 mawkishness
...

Odalisque Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations