grandame etymology

Etymology:

• Old English "grēat-mōdor" ("great-mother")
• Old Saxon "grōtmōder"
• Dutch "grootmoeder"
• German "Großmutter"

Meaning:

Grandame refers to a maternal grandmother or any elderly woman. It is a term of affection and respect, suggesting a wise and experienced figure.

Origin:

The term "grandame" has been used in English for over a thousand years. It originated from the Old English compound word "grēat-mōdor," which literally means "great-mother." This term was used to distinguish grandmothers from mothers and other female relatives.

Over time, the pronunciation of "grēat-mōdor" evolved into "grandame." The word was further shortened and simplified to "granny" or "nanny" in some dialects.

Usage:

Grandame is a relatively formal and archaic term that is not commonly used in modern speech. However, it is still occasionally found in literature, poetry, and historical contexts. It conveys a sense of reverence and affection towards an elderly woman who is respected for her experience, wisdom, and love.

grandame relate terms

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• grand

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• mother

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• grandame

  Etymology Old English grēat mōdor great mother Old Saxon grōtmōder Dutch g

• granny

  Etymology The word granny is a hypocoristic form a term of affection or endearment of

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• dust

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• solace

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• encounter

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• dominion

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