dowager
Translation
dowager
Examples
The dowager queen attended the ceremony.
The dowager queen attended the ceremony.
She is the dowager of a wealthy family.
She is the dowager of a wealthy family.
Grammar Patterns
((a/the)) dowager ((of sth.)) a dowager of a family/group She is the dowager of a wealthy family.
Similar Words
Synonyms: widow, matriarch
Etymology
From Old French 'douagiere', from 'douage' (dower), referring to a widow with a title or property from her late husband.
Memory Tips
Think of 'dow-' as related to 'dower' (a widow's share of her husband's estate). Picture a dignified, elderly woman from a period drama.