lady-in-waiting
die Hofdame, die Hofdamen
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lady-in-waiting
A noblewoman who accompanies and serves a princess or queen at a royal court. The word is mainly used in historical contexts.
Die Hofdame begleitete die Königin zu dem Empfang.
The lady-in-waiting accompanied the queen to the reception.
| gender | feminine die |
|---|---|
| plural | die Hofdamen |
| genitive | der Hofdame |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | die Hofdame | die Hofdamen |
| accusative | die Hofdame | die Hofdamen |
| dative | der Hofdame | den Hofdamen |
| genitive | der Hofdame | der Hofdamen |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Hofdame' (lady-in-waiting) is made up of 'Hof' (court) and 'Dame' (lady). Here, 'Hof' refers to the household and surroundings of a prince or queen, not the courtyard of a building.
Die junge Hofdame lebte viele Jahre am königlichen Hof.
The young lady-in-waiting lived at the royal court for many years.
'Hofdame' (lady-in-waiting) is mainly found in historical texts, stories, and depictions of courtly life. The word often appears together with a ruler's title or an expression referring to the court.
Die Hofdame der Fürstin empfing die Gäste im Schloss.
The princess's lady-in-waiting welcomed the guests at the palace.
Typical phrases include 'als Hofdame dienen' (to serve as a lady-in-waiting), 'die Hofdame der Königin' (the queen's lady-in-waiting), and 'die Königin und ihre Hofdamen' (the queen and her ladies-in-waiting). 'Hofdame' usually describes a role serving a princess or queen.
Viele Jahre diente sie als Hofdame und begleitete die Königin auf ihren Reisen.
She served as a lady-in-waiting for many years and accompanied the queen on her travels.
