Dowager

usgb/ˈdaʊədʒər/
noun

A woman, often old, who is or was married to a man of high social rank or importance and whose husband is dead but she still keeps her title.

The dowager lived alone in the grand estate, mourning the loss of her husband, the former duke.
Visual representation of "dowager" - A woman, often old, who is or was married to a man of high social rank or importance and whose husband is dead but she still keeps her title.

Often appears as...

  • dowager countess
  • dowager queen
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "dowager"
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Aristocratic Association

The term implies aristocracy, reserved for high social ranks, not the average widow.

Illustration for Aristocratic Association
The dowager princess hosted a magnificent ball.
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Retained Prestige

Even after her husband's death, a dowager retains her social prestige and title.

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The guests respectfully greeted the dowager as they would have addressed her late husband.
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Older, Not Old

Though often used for older women, 'dowager' doesn't necessarily mean she is elderly.

Illustration for Older, Not Old
The youthful dowager devoted herself to charity work.
Visual representation of the word "Dowager"

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