minauderie

noun

mi·​nau·​de·​rie

mēˈnōdrē

plural -s

: a coquettish air

—usually used in plural

the minauderies of the young ladies in the ballrooms

—W. M. Thackeray

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French, from (assumed) Middle French minauder to simper (whence French minauder) (from Middle French mine appearance, look) + Middle French -erie -ery

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now