lady
UK: ˈleɪdi | US: ˈleɪdi
n. a polite or formal way to refer to a woman
n. a woman of high social status or refinement
n. (historical) the female head of a household
lady = hlaf<bread> + dig<knead> + -y<noun suffix>
- hlaf (Old English "hlāf") means "bread."
- dig (Old English "dǣge") means "knead" or "maid."
- -y is a noun-forming suffix.
Etymology Origin:
The word "lady" originates from Old English hlǣfdīge, combining hlāf (bread) and dǣge (kneader). It originally referred to a woman who managed bread-making in a household, reflecting her domestic authority. Over time, it evolved to denote women of nobility or high social standing, emphasizing refinement and status. The shift from "bread-kneader" to "noblewoman" mirrors societal changes in gender roles and class structures.
The lady greeted her guests with grace.
She was known as a lady of great wisdom.
The medieval lady oversaw the castle’s daily affairs.
"Excuse me, lady, you dropped your scarf."
The charity event was attended by many distinguished ladies.