minx

/miɳks/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Noun: 1. A bold, flirtatious, or sexually forward young woman: The term describes a woman, typically young, who behaves in a mischievously alluring, impudent, or provocative manner. It often carries a connotation of playful sauciness or a lack of proper decorum. 2. A seductive woman who uses her sex appeal to exploit men: This meaning emphasizes the manipulative aspect, describing a woman who deliberately uses her charm and sexuality for personal gain or to control men.

Usage

The word "minx" is often used in a slightly archaic, literary, or playful context. It can be mildly derogatory, suggesting impropriety, but is sometimes used with a tone of amused or exasperated affection. It is almost exclusively applied to women or girls.

Examples
  • She was considered a bit of a minx, always teasing the young men at the party with her witty remarks and knowing smiles.
  • The novel's heroine is no delicate flower but a clever minx who outwits her suitors.
  • "You little minx!" he laughed, after she had tricked him into admitting the truth.
Advanced Usage
  • The term can sometimes be used in a more lighthearted, less critical way to describe a pet (like a cat) or a child exhibiting mischievously charming behavior.
    • Our new kitten is a real minx, stealing socks and batting at everything that moves.
Variants and Related Words
  • Minxish (adjective, rare): Having the qualities of a minx; saucily flirtatious or impudent.
    • She gave him a minxish grin before turning away.
Synonyms
  • Coquette: A woman who flirts lightheartedly with men to win their admiration.
  • Femme fatale: A seductive woman who leads men into dangerous or compromising situations (stronger, more dangerous connotation than "minx").
  • Vamp (informal, dated): A woman who uses her sexual attractiveness to manipulate men.
  • Hussy (dated, derogatory): A woman who is brazen, immoral, or sexually promiscuous.
  • Madcap: A person who acts in a wildly impulsive or reckless way (focuses on mischief rather than seduction).
Antonyms
  • Prude: A person who is excessively concerned with propriety or modesty.
  • Ingénue: A naive, innocent, or unsophisticated young woman.
Idioms and Phrases
  • (No common idioms specifically use "minx." It is typically used as a standalone noun.)
Noun
  1. a seductive woman who uses her sex appeal to exploit men

Từ đồng nghĩa

Từ gần giống