View synonyms for duenna

duenna

[ doo-en-uh, dyoo- ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

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

duenna

/ djuːˈɛnə /

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

Origin of duenna¹

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

Origin of duenna¹

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

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

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

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

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

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

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse