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Maiden

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Referring to a female who is unmarried or has not had sexual intercourse.
2. First or initial in a sequence, such as a maiden voyage or maiden speech.
3. New or unused; often describing an event or endeavor undertaken for the first time.
4. A term used historically to refer to a young woman or girl.
5. A flower or plant that has never been bloomed before.

History and Origin

The word “maiden” originates from the Old English mæden, meaning “young woman” or “virgin,” which has roots in the Proto-Germanic magad or magd, meaning “girl” or “maiden.” The term was historically used to describe a young, unmarried woman, especially one who was of marriageable age but had not yet married. Over time, its meaning extended to refer to the first instance of an event, as in the “maiden voyage” of a ship. The word has remained a part of the English language for centuries and continues to carry both its traditional and modern meanings.

Detailed Explanation

“Maiden” has several meanings depending on the context. In its traditional sense, it refers to a young, unmarried woman or girl, often implying purity or virginity. The word is also used to describe something that is the first of its kind, such as a maiden voyage, maiden flight, or maiden speech, signifying that it is the initial attempt or occurrence of something. The term can also apply to something that is new or unused, such as a maiden trip or a maiden release. In certain contexts, the word also implies something that has not been experienced before, such as a maiden effort in an unfamiliar field.

Example Sentences

1. The ship embarked on its maiden voyage across the Atlantic.
2. Her maiden speech in Parliament was well-received by her colleagues.
3. The maiden flight of the new aircraft took place yesterday.
4. The young woman remained a maiden, choosing to focus on her studies.
5. The author published her maiden novel to critical acclaim.
6. The team celebrated their maiden victory in the tournament.
7. The maiden bloom of the flower was a beautiful sight.
8. It was his maiden attempt at cooking a gourmet meal, and it turned out to be a success.
9. The actress’s maiden performance in the role earned her widespread praise.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Virgin – A person, especially a woman, who has not engaged in sexual intercourse, closely related to “maiden” in its traditional sense.
2. First – Referring to the initial occurrence of something, as in a maiden event.
3. New – Unused or recent, often used to describe a maiden experience or venture.
4. Inaugural – The first in a series, often used for events like a maiden speech or journey.
5. Primitive – Basic or early in development, similar to a maiden attempt or beginning.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Young – Referring to someone in the early stages of life, often associated with the concept of a maiden.
2. Unmarried – Not yet married, traditionally a characteristic of a maiden.
3. Debut – The first public appearance or performance of someone or something, akin to a maiden attempt or event.
4. Untouched – Not yet altered or affected, similar to a maiden state, often used metaphorically.
5. Fresh – Recently created or experienced, like a maiden voyage or performance.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Beginning – The initial phase or start of something, related to the idea of a maiden occurrence.
2. Initiation – The process of starting something, often linked to a maiden venture or effort.
3. Launch – The act of starting or introducing something, often for the first time, like a maiden launch.
4. Introduction – The first presentation or occurrence of something, often synonymous with maiden efforts.
5. Commencement – The beginning of something, often used for events like a maiden ceremony or journey.

Antonyms

1. Experienced
2. Mature
3. Seasoned
4. Veteran
5. Married