Governesses Meaning in English
word · lemma: governess
Definition
Governesses are women hired to teach and look after children in a private household, usually living with the family.
Usage & Nuances
'Governesses' is formal and historical; common in 18th–19th century contexts. Differ from 'nannies'—governesses focus on education, not just care. Often seen in literature about wealthy families.
Example Sentences
Two governesses taught the children in the big house.
basic
Jane Eyre and other governesses lived with their employers.
basic
The wealthy family hired three governesses.
basic
In classic novels, governesses often feel isolated from the family they serve.
natural
Many governesses had to be strict to maintain discipline in wealthy households.
natural
Unlike modern nannies, governesses focused more on teaching than babysitting.
natural