What does trousseau mean?
A trousseau refers to the collection of clothing, linens, and accessories gathered by a bride for her wedding and married life. This can include intimate apparel such as lingerie and nightgowns, as well as other personal items. The term is often associated with traditional wedding customs and is sometimes used to describe a woman's collection of personal items. While somewhat formal and old-fashioned, the term is still used in some contexts to evoke a sense of nostalgia and romance. The trousseau is often carefully chosen and packed with love, symbolizing the bride's preparation for her new life.
nounThe trousseau of a bride consists of all the clothes, linens, and accessories she has collected for her wedding and married life. It often includes lingerie, nightgowns, and other intimate apparel.
- A collection of clothing, linens, and accessories collected by a bride for her wedding and married life.
- A woman's collection of intimate apparel and personal items.
"The young bride carefully packed her trousseau into a large trunk, excited for her new life."
"The bride's trousseau was filled with beautiful lace lingerie and delicate nightgowns."
"The young woman spent months gathering her trousseau, choosing each item with care."
The plural form is used when referring to multiple collections of clothing and accessories.
"The brides each had their own trousseaus, carefully packed and prepared for their weddings."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of trousseau
The word 'trousseau' originates from the French language, where it refers to a bundle or collection of clothes. The term has been adopted into English and has been used since the 17th century to describe a bride's collection of clothes and accessories. The word is related to the Old French 'trousse', meaning 'bundle' or 'pack', and has evolved over time to encompass a range of meanings related to clothing and personal items.
How trousseau is actually used
This term is somewhat formal and old-fashioned, but still used in some contexts to refer to a bride's collection of clothes and accessories.