Boudoir Meaning and Definition
Boudoir
Pronunciation
/buːˈdwɑːr/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A boudoir is a private room in a house, typically a woman’s bedroom or dressing room, used for relaxation, dressing, and personal grooming.
Examples
1. “She spent hours in her boudoir, getting ready for the party.”
2. “The luxurious boudoir was equipped with a plush bed, a vanity, and a walk-in closet.”
Synonyms
1. Bedroom
2. Dressing room
Antonyms
1. Public space
2. Shared room
Additional Information
A boudoir is often associated with luxury, elegance, and femininity, and is typically decorated with soft lighting, plush furnishings, and ornate details. In the past, boudoirs were often used as a space for women to receive visitors, such as suitors or friends, and were considered a private and intimate space. Today, boudoirs are often used as a retreat for relaxation and self-care, and may include features such as a spa bath, a sauna, or a meditation room.
Boudoir photography has also become a popular genre, where photographers specialize in capturing intimate and sensual images of women in their boudoir settings.
In the world of furniture and interior design, the term “boudoir” is often used to describe a small, elegant bed or dresser, typically made of intricate carvings or ornate details.
Etymology
The word “boudoir” is derived from the French language, where it is used to describe a private room or closet. The word is thought to have originated in the 17th century, when French ladies would retire to their boudoirs to dress and prepare for social events.
Usage Notes
When using the word “boudoir” in context, it is essential to convey the idea of a private, intimate space used for relaxation and personal grooming. The word can be used in a variety of settings, including hospitality, interior design, and photography.
In spoken language, the word is pronounced as /buːˈdwɑːr/ (BOO-dwar), with a stress on the second syllable.
Cultural References
The concept of a boudoir has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. Notable examples include:
- “Belle Époque” (1965), a novel by Katherine Mansfield, which features a character who retreats to her boudoir to escape the demands of her social life.
- “The Da Vinci Code” (2006), a film starring Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou, which features a scene where the character Sophie Neveu (Audrey Tautou) searches for a hidden code in her sister’s boudoir.
- “Downton Abbey” (2010-2015), a British television series, which features a character who uses her boudoir as a space for romance and escapism.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “boudoir” are:
- “Boudoir charm” refers to a woman’s ability to be charming and alluring, often in a seductive or sensual way.
- “Boudoir photography” refers to a style of photography that focuses on capturing intimate and sensual images of women in their boudoir settings.
Collocations
Common word combinations with the term “boudoir” include:
- “Boudoir decor”
- “Boudoir furniture”
- “Boudoir fashion”
Frequency of Use
The term “boudoir” is relatively rare in modern language, but has gained popularity in recent years due to the rise of boudoir photography and the increasing interest in luxury and elegance in interior design and hospitality.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of the word “boudoir” include:
- Boo-dor
- Bodior
- Board