chatelaine

• Nom avec deux sens distincts : il peut désigner la maîtresse d'une grande maison de campagne ou d'un château, ainsi qu'une chaîne décorative portée à la ceinture par les femmes, utilisée historiquement pour suspendre des objets tels qu'un porte-monnaie ou des clés.

A noun with two distinct meanings: it can refer to the mistress of a large country house or chateau, or to a decorative chain worn at a woman's waist, historically used to carry items such as a purse or keys.

1. Mistress of a large houseC2formalbritish

   The female owner or manager of a large country house or castle.

   Châtelaine (maîtresse de maison)

   • The chatelaine of the manor welcomed the guests.
   • As chatelaine, she oversaw all the household staff.
   • The chatelaine organized the grand ball in the castle.

   Synonymeslady of the house

2. Decorative waist chainC2formalbritish

   A decorative chain worn at a woman's waist, historically used to hold keys, a purse, or other small items.

   chaîne de ceinture

   • She wore an ornate chatelaine with her evening gown.
   • The chatelaine held her keys and a small sewing kit.
   • Antique chatelaines are now collector's items.