A damsel in distress
noun
A young woman who is in trouble or danger and needs help.
In the movie, the superhero flies to the rescue of a damsel in distress.
Often appears as...
- rescue a damsel in distress
- plays the damsel in distress
Usage tips
Idiomatic
noun
A young woman who is in trouble or danger and needs help.
In the movie, the superhero flies to the rescue of a damsel in distress.
Often appears as...
- rescue a damsel in distress
- plays the damsel in distress
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Origin
The phrase originates from medieval chivalric romances, where noble heroes rescue noblewomen from peril.
Knights used to be the saviors of damsels in distress in old stories.
Pro Tip 2/3Gender Roles
The phrase often implies traditional gender roles, where men are rescuers and women are passive victims.
He fancied himself a gallant knight saving the damsel in distress.
Pro Tip 3/3Stereotype Challenge
Modern use may challenge stereotypes, making the 'damsel' a strong character, or using the concept ironically.
She laughed at the idea of being a damsel in distress; she could handle the situation herself.
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Origin
The phrase originates from medieval chivalric romances, where noble heroes rescue noblewomen from peril.
Knights used to be the saviors of damsels in distress in old stories.
Pro Tip 2/3Gender Roles
The phrase often implies traditional gender roles, where men are rescuers and women are passive victims.
He fancied himself a gallant knight saving the damsel in distress.
Pro Tip 3/3Stereotype Challenge
Modern use may challenge stereotypes, making the 'damsel' a strong character, or using the concept ironically.
She laughed at the idea of being a damsel in distress; she could handle the situation herself.
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Origin
The phrase originates from medieval chivalric romances, where noble heroes rescue noblewomen from peril.
Knights used to be the saviors of damsels in distress in old stories.
Pro Tip 2/3Gender Roles
The phrase often implies traditional gender roles, where men are rescuers and women are passive victims.
He fancied himself a gallant knight saving the damsel in distress.
Pro Tip 3/3Stereotype Challenge
Modern use may challenge stereotypes, making the 'damsel' a strong character, or using the concept ironically.
She laughed at the idea of being a damsel in distress; she could handle the situation herself.
Never forget "A damsel in distress"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension