duenna

[ doo-en-uh, dyoo- ]

noun

1. (in Spain and Portugal) an older woman serving as escort or chaperon of a young lady.
2. a governess.

duenna

/ djuːˈɛnə /

noun

1. (in Spain and Portugal, etc) an elderly woman retained by a family to act as governess and chaperon to young girls

Other Words From

• du·enna·ship noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of duenna¹

First recorded in 1660–70; from older Spanish duenna (modern Spanish dueña ), from Latin domina, feminine of dominus “lord, master”

Word History and Origins

Origin of duenna¹

C17: from Spanish dueña, from Latin domina lady, feminine of dominus master

Example Sentences

How could I know so little of myself, when I sent my Duenna to forbid your coming more under my lattice?

From Project Gutenberg

As official duenna of this family, I think we'd better change the game or put out the lights.

From Project Gutenberg

The poor old duenna drew back out of sight, in the shadow of a curtain—and began to cry.

From Project Gutenberg

Always following her impulses without troubling herself to think first, the duenna followed them now.

From Project Gutenberg

The wily duenna chose that propitious moment to present herself in the capacity of a new audience.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• matron