Cinderella

usgb/ˌsɪndəˈrelə/
noun

The main female character in a popular fairy tale, who is badly treated by her stepmother and stepsisters but ends up marrying a prince.

Cinderella is a well-known fairy tale that has been adapted into many films.
Visual representation of "cinderella" - The main female character in a popular fairy tale, who is badly treated by her stepmother and stepsisters but ends up marrying a prince.

Often appears as...

  • cinderella story
  • cinderella complex

Usage tips

Literary

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "cinderella"
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Fairy Tale Origins

Understand that 'Cinderella' originated from a fairy tale and is often linked to magic and transformation.

Illustration for Fairy Tale Origins
She felt like Cinderella at the ball in her new dress.
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Underdog Symbol

'Cinderella' symbolizes an underdog or someone starting at a disadvantage.

Illustration for Underdog Symbol
The shy student was the Cinderella of the science fair, surprising everyone with her winning project.
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Cultural Metaphor

The word can be used metaphorically to describe someone's transformation or unexpected success.

Illustration for Cultural Metaphor
With her sudden fame, she became the Cinderella of indie music.
Visual representation of the word "Cinderella"

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