wooer
/'wu:ə/
Definition
Noun: 1. A person, typically a man, who seeks to gain the love of or to marry someone, especially through persistent attention, flattery, or courtship. This term specifically refers to the active party in a romantic pursuit. 2. A suitor; someone who formally proposes marriage.
Usage
The word "wooer" is a somewhat formal or literary term. It describes a person engaged in the act of wooing—the process of trying to win affection or persuade someone to marry them. While historically and often used for a man courting a woman, the core concept of actively pursuing romantic favor can apply more broadly.
Examples
- In the classic tale, every wooer had to answer a riddle to win the princess's hand.
- She was amused by the attentions of her latest wooer, but she was not seriously interested.
- The young nobleman presented himself as a most ardent and devoted wooer.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically to describe someone who diligently seeks to gain favor, support, or approval, though this is less common.
- The politician was a skilled wooer of undecided voters.
Variants and Related Words
- To woo (verb): The action performed by a wooer; to seek the favor, affection, or love of someone.
- He tried to woo her with poetry and flowers.
- Wooing (noun/gerund): The process or period of courting someone.
- Their wooing was a long and elaborate affair.
Synonyms
- Suitor
- Admirer
- Beau
- Suer (archaic)
Antonyms
- Rejecter
- Beloved (the one being wooed)
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To pay court to: A formal phrase similar in meaning to "to woo."
- For months, he paid court to her, hoping she would accept his proposal.
Noun
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a man who courts a woman
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a suer for the hand of the princess
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