CICISBEI Meaning and
Definition
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Cicisbei refers to a social phenomenon that emerged in 18th century Italy, particularly during the Reign of Court of Louis XIV, characterized by a system of romantic companionship or extramarital relationships. The term specifically pertains to the role of male admirers or attendants who typically accompanied married noblewomen in purely platonic relationships.
Derived from the Italian word "cicisbeo," meaning "flirt" or "companion," cicisbei were mainly from the middle or lower noble classes and were identified by their polite manners, stylish attire, and suave charm. Their primary function was to provide social companionship and entertainment for married women, often accompanying them to social events, public engagements, and even private gatherings. Cicisbei were expected to engage in witty conversations, engage in flirtatious banter, and offer emotional support to the women they accompanied.
While the relationships between cicisbei and their noble female companions were generally non-sexual, they often involved deep emotional connections and intense loyalty. These relationships were often known and accepted by the women's husbands, as they were seen as a way to alleviate social boredom for married aristocratic women and maintain decorum within their households.
As the Enlightenment spread across Europe, the concept of cicisbei fell out of favor, considered excessive and decadent. This social practice dwindled in the early 19th century, as societal norms shifted towards a more conservative approach to relationships and gender roles. However, the legacy of cicisbei remains as a peculiar aspect of Italian social history, highlighting the complex dynamics between love, fidelity, and social expectations in the aristocratic circles of the time.
Common Misspellings for CICISBEI
- xicisbei
- vicisbei
- ficisbei
- dicisbei
- cucisbei
- cjcisbei
- ckcisbei
- cocisbei
- c9cisbei
- c8cisbei
- cixisbei
- civisbei
- cifisbei
- cidisbei
- cicusbei
- cicjsbei
- cicksbei
- cicosbei
- cic9sbei
- ciciebei
Etymology of CICISBEI
The word "Cicisbei" originates from the Italian language. It is derived from the word "cicisbeo", which was used in 18th-century Italy to refer to a man who attended and provided companionship to a married woman, usually in a platonic or non-sexual manner. The term cicisbeo was primarily employed in the courts of aristocratic society in Italy and was influenced by French and Spanish courtly customs. The exact origin or etymology of the word "cicisbeo" is uncertain, but it is believed to have derived from a dialectal variation of "cecisbeo", which means "the blind one" in Italian. This term may have been chosen to convey the idea that the cicisbeo was discreet, loyal, and discreetly observed his role in the lady's life.
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