Definition

Proper noun: * Françoise d'Aubigné: A French noblewoman, historically significant as the second wife of King Louis XIV of France. The marriage was a secret morganatic marriage, meaning it was not officially recognized as equal to a royal marriage, and it occurred after the death of the king's first wife, Maria Theresa of Spain.

Usage

• Françoise d'Aubigné is used as a historical name to refer to this specific individual. It is often mentioned in the context of French royal history, the court of Louis XIV, and discussions on morganatic marriages.
  • The king's confidante and later wife was Françoise d'Aubigné, Marquise de Maintenon.
  • Historians study the influence of Françoise d'Aubigné on the later years of Louis XIV's reign.

Advanced Usage

• Madame de Maintenon: This is the title by which she is most commonly known in historical texts, acquired from the estate of Maintenon. When discussing her role at court or her political influence, this title is frequently used.
  • The school at Saint-Cyr was founded under the patronage of Madame de Maintenon.

Variants and Related Words

• Madame de Maintenon: The more common referent for this figure, using her title rather than her birth name.
• Marquise de Maintenon: A formal variant of the above title.

Synonyms

• Secret wife of Louis XIV: A descriptive synonym referencing her primary historical role.
• Morganatic spouse: A categorical term describing the nature of her marriage to the king.

Noun

1. French consort of Louis XIV who secretly married the king after the death of his first wife (1635-1719)