Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • English writer and illustrator; grandfather of Daphne du Maurier (1834-1896): Refers to George du Maurier, a 19th-century British artist and novelist known for his illustrations and his novel "Trilby".
   • English writer of melodramatic novels (1907-1989): Refers to Dame Daphne du Maurier, a 20th-century British author famous for her romantic and suspenseful novels, such as "Rebecca" and "Jamaica Inn".

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The illustrations by du Maurier for "Punch" magazine are highly regarded. (This refers to George du Maurier.)
  • I am reading a gripping Gothic novel by du Maurier. (This refers to Daphne du Maurier.)
  • The literary styles of the two du Mauriers are quite distinct from each other.

Advanced Usage

• The surname "du Maurier" is often used metonymically to refer to the body of work or the distinctive style associated with these authors.
  • Her latest book has a definite du Maurier feel to it, full of mystery and atmosphere. (This typically refers to the style of Daphne du Maurier.)

Variants and Related Words

• Daphne du Maurier (n): Specifically refers to the 20th-century novelist.
• George du Maurier (n): Specifically refers to the 19th-century illustrator and novelist.

Synonyms

• Author (n): A writer of a book, article, or report. (A general term applicable to both.)
• Novelist (n): A writer of novels. (Primarily applicable to Daphne du Maurier.)
• Illustrator (n): An artist who makes illustrations. (Primarily applicable to George du Maurier.)

Notes on Usage

• "Du Maurier" is a family name. When used without a first name, context usually clarifies which individual is meant. In literary contexts, it most commonly refers to Daphne du Maurier.
• The name is often preceded by a title: .
• It is typically treated as a singular proper noun, even when referring to the collective legacy of the family.

Noun

1. English writer and illustrator; grandfather of Daphne du Maurier (1834-1896)
2. English writer of melodramatic novels (1907-1989)