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- Duègne - meaning & definition
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Translate Files Duègne (en. Duenna)
/dyɛɲ/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
noun
A woman responsible for looking after a young girl, often an orphan.
The duenna took care of her charges throughout their childhood.
La duègne a pris soin de ses protégées tout au long de leur enfance.
In certain literary works, a figure representing wisdom and protection.
The character of the duenna in the novel is a symbol of tradition.
Le personnage de la duègne dans le roman est un symbole de la tradition.
Etymology
From the low Latin 'digna', related to notions of care and dignity.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tighten the purse strings
To be stingy or reluctant to spend money.
serrer les cordons de la bourse
have a heart of gold
To be very generous.
avoir le cœur sur la main
Related Words
governess
A woman responsible for the education of young children.
gouvernante
guardian
A person designated to guide a minor in educational matters.
tutrice
protector
A woman who defends or ensures someone's safety.
protectrice
Slang Meanings
A boring duenna
She is a duenna, always wanting to control my choices.
Elle est une duègne, toujours à vouloir contrôler mes choix.
A woman who is too strict
It's my duenna who always sets rules for me to follow.
C'est ma duègne qui me met toujours des règles à suivre.