chaperone
UK: ˈʃæpərəʊn | US: ˈʃæpəroʊn
n. 1. A person who accompanies and supervises young people in social settings to ensure proper behavior.
vt. 2. To act as a chaperone for someone.
chaperone = chape<hood/cape> + rone<diminutive suffix>
- chape <hood/cape>: From Old French chape, meaning "hood" or "cape," derived from Late Latin cappa.
- rone <diminutive suffix>: A suffix of uncertain origin, possibly a playful or affectionate diminutive in French.
Etymology Origin:
The word chaperone originally referred to a hood or cape worn by noblewomen in medieval Europe. Over time, it metaphorically evolved to describe a person who "covers" or protects others, especially young women in social contexts. The shift from literal clothing to a guardian role reflects the cultural practice of older women symbolically "shielding" their charges from impropriety.
The school dance required each student to bring a chaperone.
She volunteered to chaperone the field trip to the museum.
In the 19th century, unmarried women were rarely seen without a chaperone.
The novel’s plot revolves around a strict chaperone and her rebellious ward.
Modern parents often debate whether teenagers still need chaperones at parties.