Chatelaine - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A chatelaine is a decorative belt hook or clasp worn at the waist, historically used to hold keys or small household items. It symbolizes authority and domestic management in earlier centuries.
Definition:
A woman in charge of a large house or castle, or a decorative belt hook for carrying keys.
Synonyms:
housekeeper, mistress, stewardess
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
guest, visitor
Common Collocations:
chatelaine bag, chatelaine hook, medieval chatelaine
Derivatives:
chatelaines, chatelain (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "chatelaine" to describe a historical female household manager or an ornamental key holder worn at the waist.
Common Phrases:
lady of the manor, keeper of the keys, household authority
Etymology:
From French "châtelaine," feminine of "châtelain," meaning castle lord or keeper, derived from Latin "castellanus."
Examples:
- 1. The chatelaine managed the castle’s daily affairs with precision.
- 2. She wore an elegant chatelaine adorned with tiny silver keys.
- 3. The Victorian-era chatelaine was both practical and decorative for women.
- 4. As the new chatelaine, she took pride in her responsibilities.