demi monde etymology

Etymology:

  • French for "half world"
  • Originally used to refer to the social class of courtesans and their associates in 19th-century Paris

Meaning:

  • A subculture or social group that exists outside the mainstream
  • A world that is both fascinating and dangerous, often associated with decadence and intrigue

Origin:

The term "demi monde" was coined by French novelist Alexandre Dumas, fils (1824-1895). He used it to describe the society of courtesans that existed in Paris during the Second French Empire (1852-1870).

These women were not considered part of respectable society, but they had connections to the wealthy and influential elite. They lived in a world of luxury and vice, and they often played a role in political and financial affairs.

The term "demi monde" quickly became popular in French society, and it was eventually adopted into English. It continues to be used today to refer to any subculture or social group that exists outside the mainstream.

demi monde relate terms

  • mundane

    Etymology Mundane derives from the Latin word mundānus meaning of the world It

  • cosmos

    Etymology The word cosmos comes from the Greek word kosmos which means order or u

  • reputation

    Etymology Latin reputare to weigh consider think over Proto Indo European root r

  • hero

    Etymology The word hero originates from the Greek word ἥρως herōs which refe

  • bluchers

    Etymology The term blucher comes from the name of the Prussian field marshal Gebhard L

  • mound

    Etymology The word mound comes from the Old English word mund meaning mountain or

  • abound

    Etymology The word abound comes from the Old French word abondir which in turn came

  • favor

    Etymology The word favor originates from the Old French word faveur which in turn co

  • sovereign

    Etymology The word sovereign is derived from the Old French word soverain which in

  • posh

    Etymology Middle English posch posshe Anglo Norman French poche from Old French po