chaperon

/ ˈʃæpərənɪdʒ; ˈʃæpəˌrəʊn /

noun

1. (esp formerly) an older or married woman who accompanies or supervises a young unmarried woman on social occasions
2. someone who accompanies and supervises a group, esp of young people, usually when in public places

verb

1. to act as a chaperon to

Derived Forms

• chaperonage, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of chaperon¹

C14: from Old French, from chape hood, protective covering; see cap

Example Sentences

During her initial consultation she was told to disrobe and Mowlavi examined her without a female chaperon in the room and without wearing gloves, according to the accusation.

From Los Angeles Times

Should it materialize, the takeover would be the latest disturbance at the Torrance shopping center, which recently instituted a chaperon policy after several large youth melees.

From Los Angeles Times

Simon Property Group recently established a chaperon policy at the Del Amo mall, prohibiting anyone younger than 18 from visiting without being accompanied by an adult age 21 or older after 3 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

From Los Angeles Times

A few hours earlier, he found himself distracted by a fast-approaching appointment to chaperon his teenage son to his driver’s license test.

From Los Angeles Times

“It is a sort of thing,” cried Mrs. Elton emphatically, “which I should not have thought myself privileged to inquire into. Though, perhaps, as the Chaperon of the party—I never was in any circle—exploring parties—young ladies—married women—”

From Literature