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noun

die Jungfrau, -en

maiden

Definition & meaning

The word "Jungfrau" primarily refers to a young woman who has not yet had sexual intercourse (a virgin).

In a broader, metaphorical, or historical sense, it can also refer to:

  • A woman who remains unmarried.
  • In geography, it is the name of a famous mountain in the Swiss Alps, known for its pristine, untouched nature.
  • In astrology, it refers to the zodiac sign Virgo.

Grammar & Word origin

"Die Jungfrau" is a feminine noun. The plural form is "die Jungfrauen".

The word is a compound of two Middle High German elements:

  • "Junc": meaning young (related to the modern German word jung ).
  • "Frouwe": meaning lady or noblewoman (related to the modern German word Frau ).

Historically, it was used to describe a young noblewoman, but the meaning shifted over time to specifically denote the state of sexual innocence or virginity.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Die Unberührte (referring specifically to sexual innocence)
  • Die Maid (archaic/poetic)
  • Das Fräulein (dated, formerly used for unmarried women)

Antonyms:

  • Die Frau (in the sense of a married or sexually experienced woman)
  • Die Matrone (referring to a dignified, older, or married woman)

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Examples

Er trifft eine Jungfrau im Märchenwald.noun

He meets a maiden in the fairy tale forest.

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