princess
Princess (noun) means a female member of a royal family, especially a daughter or granddaughter of a monarch. Example: “The princess greeted well-wishers outside the cathedral.”
How to Use Princess
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA female royal, or informally, someone (often a child) treated as if she deserves special pampering.
The "spoiled person" sense is informal and can be mildly insulting.
Word Forms
princesses plural, Princesses plural
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ greeted well-wishers outside the cathedral.
Etymology
From Old French princesse, formed from prince plus the feminine suffix -ess.
Synonyms
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does “princess” mean?
The word “princess” means a female member of a royal family, especially a daughter or granddaughter of a monarch. In plain terms, a female royal, or informally, someone (often a child) treated as if she deserves special pampering.
How do you pronounce “princess”?
“Princess” is pronounced prihn-SEHS (/ˈpɹɪnsɛs/ in IPA).
How do you use “princess” in a sentence?
Here is “princess” used in a sentence: “The princess greeted well-wishers outside the cathedral.”
What part of speech is “princess”?
“Princess” is a noun.
Where does the word “princess” come from?
The word “princess” comes from Old French. From Old French princesse, formed from prince plus the feminine suffix -ess.
Is “princess” a common word?
“Princess” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “princess” have?
“Princess” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a female member of a royal family, especially a daughter or granddaughter of a monarch.
What is the difference between a princess and a queen?
A princess is typically the daughter or granddaughter of a monarch, or a woman married to a prince. A queen either reigns as the monarch in her own right or is the wife of a king. In short, a queen usually outranks a princess, and a princess may one day become queen.
Can a princess become a queen?
Yes. A princess who is in line to the throne becomes queen when she succeeds the monarch, ruling as queen regnant. She can also become queen by marrying a king, taking the title of queen consort. Not every princess reaches the throne, since succession depends on birth order and royal law.
What is the difference between a princess and a duchess?
Both are royal or noble titles, but they sit at different levels. Princess is usually reserved for the daughters and granddaughters of a monarch and ranks very high. Duchess is a step below, held by a woman who is a duke's wife or who holds a dukedom. A princess can also be styled a duchess through marriage.