Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • English writer and illustrator: George du Maurier was a 19th-century British artist and author, known for his work as a cartoonist and novelist. He is also recognized as the grandfather of the novelist Daphne du Maurier.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • George du Maurier was a prominent illustrator for the magazine Punch.
  • The novel Trilby by George du Maurier introduced the character Svengali.

Advanced Usage

• Historical and familial context: The name is often used in discussions of 19th-century British art and literature, as well as in the context of literary families.
  • The artistic legacy of George du Maurier influenced his descendants.

Variants and Related Words

• Du Maurier: A surname. When used alone, it most commonly refers to his granddaughter, Daphne du Maurier, the author of .
• Trilby: The title of his most famous novel, which also entered the language as a term for a type of soft hat.

Synonyms

• Cartoonist: (a person who draws cartoons, especially for newspapers or magazines).
• Illustrator: (an artist who makes illustrations for books or other written works).

Related Phrases

• Svengali: A character created by George du Maurier in , whose name has become a common noun for a person who exercises excessive control or influence over another.
  • The coach was described as a Svengali, completely controlling the athlete's career.

Noun

1. English writer and illustrator; grandfather of Daphne du Maurier (1834-1896)