PRECIEUSE Meaning and
Definition
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Precieuse is a noun that refers to a person, specifically a woman, who tries to appear refined, elegant, and sophisticated in order to gain social recognition and admiration. The term originated in France during the 17th century and became associated with a particular social group known as the "precieuses."
The precieuses were women who prided themselves on their intellectual pursuits, cultural knowledge, and artistic taste. They sought to distinguish themselves from other women by adopting an elevated and refined lifestyle. This often involved establishing themselves as arbiters of taste and style in matters of fashion, literature, and conversation.
A typical precieuse was highly educated, well-read, and had a fondness for literature, poetry, and philosophy. They would engage in intellectual discussions, demonstrate wit and cleverness, and often used high-flown language and elaborate speech patterns.
However, the precieuses were also satirized and criticized for their affectations, pretentiousness, and artificiality. Their attitudes and behavior were seen as exaggerated and insincere, leading to the term "precious" being associated with preciousness, affectation, and artificiality.
Today, the term precieuse is rarely used in its original context. However, it can still be used to describe individuals, particularly women, who display excessive refinement or pretentiousness in their manner or appearance.
Common Misspellings for PRECIEUSE
- preciouse
- preciose
- orecieuse
- lrecieuse
- -recieuse
- 0recieuse
- peecieuse
- pdecieuse
- pfecieuse
- ptecieuse
- p5ecieuse
- p4ecieuse
- prwcieuse
- prscieuse
- prdcieuse
- prrcieuse
- pr4cieuse
- pr3cieuse
- prexieuse
- previeuse
Etymology of PRECIEUSE
The word "Précieuse" has its origins in 17th-century France. It comes from the Old French word "precieux", meaning "precious" or "valuable".
During the 17th century, a group of French women became known as "Les Précieuses" due to their refined and sophisticated manners, intellectual pursuits, and self-proclaimed adherence to a code of behavior based on purity and virtue. These women gathered in salons, engaging in discussions about literature, philosophy, and social issues.
The term "Précieuse" was initially used as a positive designation, highlighting the admirable qualities of these women. However, it later took on a more pejorative connotation as the movement faced criticism for its perceived affectation, excessive use of literary devices, and pretentiousness.
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