Definition

A polite title used in France for an unmarried woman or girl.

Example

The mademoiselle at the café served us delicious pastries.

Conversation

Did you meet the new teacher?

Yeah, she's a lovely mademoiselle, very friendly!

I hope she teaches us something interesting.

I'm sure she will; I've heard great things about her lessons.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Mademoiselle** → The word originates from Old French, where "ma" (meaning my) and "demoiselle" (meaning young lady or miss) combine to form a term of respect for an unmarried woman. Thus, "mademoiselle" literally means 'my young lady' or 'my miss.'

Memory Tip

Think of 'my' ('ma') and 'young lady' ('demoiselle') to remember that 'mademoiselle' is a respectful term for an unmarried woman.

Visually Confused Words