Definition of maiden

The word "maiden" has a rich history! It originates from Old English "mæġden," which means "girl" or "young woman." This was derived from the Proto-Germanic "magathiz" and the Proto-Indo-European "meh2t-" both of which carried a sense of "girl" or "female child." Over time, the meaning of "maiden" expanded to include connotations of purity, innocence, and virginity. In Middle English (circa 1100-1500), the word "maiden" was used to describe a young unmarried woman, often with a sense of virtue and chivalry. This association with honor and integrity is reflected in phrases like "maiden's honor" or "maiden's name," where the term is used to emphasize a woman's reputation. Today, while the connotations of "maiden" are mostly archaic, the word remains a nostalgic reference to a bygone era of chivalry and courtly love.