Definition

Proper noun 1. A surname of Scottish and Irish origin: A family name, most famously associated with Marilyn Monroe, an American actress and cultural icon. 2. A given name: Used for both males and females, though more common for females in modern times, often in reference to Marilyn Monroe. 3. A toponym (place name): Refers to several towns and cities in the United States, named after individuals with the surname Monroe, most notably President James Monroe.

Usage Examples

• As a surname:
  • Marilyn Monroe was a major star of the 1950s.
  • The Monroe family has lived here for generations.
• As a given name:
  • They named their daughter Monroe after her grandmother.
• As a place name:
  • I grew up in Monroe, Louisiana.
  • We're driving through Monroe County.

Advanced Usage

• "Monroe Doctrine": A principle of US foreign policy articulated by President James Monroe in 1823, opposing European colonialism in the Americas.
  • The Monroe Doctrine was a defining moment in American diplomatic history.
• "Marilyn Monroe": Used as a cultural reference point for timeless beauty, Hollywood glamour, or tragic fame.
  • Her blonde hair and style were a deliberate homage to Marilyn Monroe.

Variants and Related Words

• Monrovia (proper noun): The capital city of Liberia, named after President James Monroe.
• Monroesque (adjective, informal): Resembling or characteristic of Marilyn Monroe, especially in style or appearance.
  • She has a Monroesque glamour about her.

Synonyms

• For the surname or given name: There are no direct synonyms, as it is a proper noun.
• For the cultural reference "Marilyn Monroe": Icon, sex symbol, screen legend.

Related Phrases

• "The Monroe Doctrine": This is a fixed historical and political term.
• "A Marilyn Monroe moment": An informal phrase referring to an instance of iconic, glamorous, or vulnerable femininity, often related to the famous scene from where her white dress is blown by a subway grate.
  • The wind gave her a full Marilyn Monroe moment.

Related Idioms

• "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend": While not containing "Monroe," this idiom is inextricably linked to her due to her famous performance of the song in the film .
• "Happy Birthday, Mr. President": Another phrase culturally tied to Monroe, from her sultry 1962 performance for President John F. Kennedy.

Noun

1. a town in north central Louisiana
2. a town of southeast Michigan on Lake Erie
3. 5th President of the United States; author of the Monroe Doctrine (1758-1831)
4. United States film actress noted for sex appeal (1926-1962)