Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
governess
noun
/ˈɡʌvənɛs/
Definition
A governess is a woman who is employed to teach and take care of children in a private household.
Examples
- During the Victorian era, many well-to-do families hired a governess to educate their children at home.
- The governess helped the children with their homework and also taught them how to behave properly in society.
- After her own education, she decided to become a governess to share her love for learning.
Meaning
Governesses typically provide education in subjects such as reading, writing, and arithmetic, alongside guidance in manners and other life skills.
Synonyms
- tutor
- instructor
- teacher
- nanny
