belle
word
Definition
A belle is a very beautiful and socially admired young woman, especially one who attracts a lot of attention at a party or in a community. The word is somewhat old-fashioned and is often used in historical, literary, or playful contexts.
Usage & Nuances
Usually a noun, not a general everyday synonym for 'beautiful woman'. Common in set phrases like 'southern belle' and 'the belle of the ball'. It suggests elegance, charm, and public admiration, and can sound old-fashioned, literary, or slightly ironic in modern speech.
Example Sentences
People called her the belle of the town.
basic
At the dance, Mia was the belle of the ball.
basic
The story is about a young belle in the South.
basic
She looked like a modern-day belle, with everyone turning to watch her enter.
natural
He kept describing his grandmother as the neighborhood belle back in the 1950s.
natural
That dress gives total belle of the ball energy.
natural