fauntleroy
Definition
Noun: 1. An excessively polite and well-dressed boy: A boy, especially a young one, who is characterized by being unnaturally courteous, refined, and dressed in an elaborate, old-fashioned, or dandyish manner. The term often carries a connotation of being overly delicate or effeminate.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The little boy in his velvet suit was a perfect fauntleroy.
- He was teased at school for being a fauntleroy, always saying "please" and "thank you" while the other boys played roughly.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used derisively or critically to describe a boy whose behavior or appearance is seen as affected, pretentiously genteel, or not fitting conventional masculine norms.
- The critic dismissed the character as a mere fauntleroy, lacking any genuine strength or complexity.
Variants and Related Words
- Little Lord Fauntleroy: This is the direct source of the term, originating from the title and main character of Frances Hodgson Burnett's 1886 novel. The character, Cedric Errol, is known for his exceptional politeness, gentle nature, and distinctive curly hair and velvet suit with a lace collar.
- Her son's long hair and good manners led her friends to call him her Little Lord Fauntleroy.
Synonyms
- Dandy: A man unduly devoted to style, neatness, and fashion in dress and appearance.
- Fop: A man who is excessively concerned with his clothes and appearance.
- Milksop: A timid, weak, or indecisive person (specifically a man or boy).
- Mama's boy: A boy or man excessively attached to or influenced by his mother.
Notes on Meaning
- The term is a proper noun turned common noun, derived from a specific literary character. Its meaning is almost entirely defined by the attributes of that character.
- It is archaic and literary. In modern usage, it is a somewhat dated and niche term, primarily used for stylistic or humorous effect.
Noun
-
an excessively polite and well-dressed boy
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