maidenlike
/'meidnlaik/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Resembling or characteristic of a maiden; having the qualities traditionally associated with a young, unmarried woman, such as modesty, purity, or gentleness.
Usage
- The adjective maidenlike is used to describe a person's behavior, appearance, or demeanor. It is a somewhat old-fashioned or literary term that evokes traditional ideals of femininity, such as innocence, modesty, and grace. It is typically used in a positive, complimentary sense.
Examples
- Her maidenlike demeanor and soft-spoken words charmed everyone at the gathering.
- She accepted the compliment with a maidenlike blush and a shy smile.
- In the novel, the heroine is described as having a maidenlike innocence about the ways of the world.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically to describe things that possess a fresh, pure, or untouched quality, reminiscent of a maiden.
- The garden had a maidenlike beauty in the early morning dew.
Variants and Related Words
- Maidenly (adj): This is a more common synonym with an identical meaning (e.g., ).
- Maiden (n): A young, unmarried woman or a girl.
- Girlish (adj): Resembling or characteristic of a girl, which can overlap with maidenlike but often emphasizes youthfulness over specific qualities of modesty.
Synonyms
- Demure: Reserved, modest, and shy.
- Modest: Unassuming in the estimation of one's abilities or achievements; decent and proper in dress, speech, or behavior.
- Vestal: Chaste or pure, often in a historical or religious context.
- Virginal: Characteristic of a virgin; pure, untouched.
Antonyms
- Bold: Confident and courageous, often to the point of being impudent.
- Immodest: Lacking humility or decency.
- Worldly: Experienced and sophisticated, not innocent.
Adjective
- befitting or characteristic of a maiden
- a maidenly blush