maiden

UK: ˈmeɪd(ə)n | US: ˈmeɪd(ə)n

Definition

  1. n. 1. A young unmarried woman.

  2. n. 2. The first occurrence or performance of something (e.g., maiden voyage).

  3. adj. 1. Relating to a young unmarried woman.

  4. adj. 2. Being the first of its kind (e.g., maiden flight).

Structure
maid <young woman>en <diminutive or archaic suffix>
Etymology

The word "maiden" originates from Old English "mægden," a diminutive form of "mægþ" (meaning "maid" or "young woman"). The suffix "-en" was commonly used in Old English to form diminutives or feminine nouns. Over time, "maiden" evolved to signify purity, youth, or first occurrences (e.g., "maiden voyage"), reflecting cultural associations with innocence and new beginnings.

Examples

  1. The maiden gracefully danced at the village festival.

  2. Titanic’s maiden voyage ended in tragedy.

  3. She was crowned the maiden of the annual spring ceremony.

  4. The knight vowed to protect the maiden from harm.

  5. The spacecraft’s maiden launch was a historic milestone.