dona

/'dounə/ Cách viết khác : (donah) /'dounə/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Noun: 1. A Spanish courtesy title or form of address for a woman, equivalent to "Mrs." or "Madam." It is used before a first name to show respect. * Dona Marguerita was known for her generosity.

Usage Notes
  • Capitalization: "Dona" is always capitalized when used as a title before a name (e.g., ).
  • Context: This term is specific to Spanish and Portuguese-speaking cultures. In English, it is used when referring to or addressing a woman within that cultural context, or in historical fiction.
  • Formality: It is a formal and respectful title.
Examples
  • The estate was managed by Dona Isabel.
  • We had the honor of meeting Dona Maria, the matriarch of the family.
Advanced Usage
  • The title can be used in English texts to add authenticity or local color when describing settings or characters from Spanish or Portuguese cultures.
    • The novel's protagonist sought an audience with Dona Beatriz.
Variants and Related Words
  • Doña: The original Spanish spelling with the tilde (~) over the 'n'. This is the most accurate form in Spanish.
  • Don: The male equivalent title (e.g., ).
  • Señora: Another Spanish term for "Mrs." or "Madam," more commonly used than "Doña" in general address.
Synonyms
  • Madam: A formal title of respect for a woman.
  • Mrs.: A title used before a married woman's surname or full name.
  • Lady: (Archaic/formal) A term of respect for a woman of high social position.
Important Note on Other Meanings

The reference to a slang meaning ("woman," "sweetheart") from the English-Vietnamese dictionary is an entirely different word, though spelled identically. That slang term (also spelled donah) is of Romani origin and is not related to the Spanish title Dona. For clarity in English, the Spanish title is the primary and standard meaning.

Noun
  1. a Spanish courtesy title or form of address for a woman
    • Dona Marguerita