Ladylike

Ladylike

Adjective · /ˈleɪ.di.laɪk/

Definition

Behaving or appearing in a way considered appropriate for a refined, well-bred woman; polite, graceful, and socially correct according to conventional standards of feminine behaviour.

Origin

From lady + like (resembling, appropriate to). Lady derives from Old English hlæfdige (a kneader of bread — the woman of the house), from hlaf (bread) + dige (one who kneads). The concept of ladylike behaviour reflects the social construction of appropriate femininity in different historical periods. Used in English from the late 17th century.