belle

[bel]

belle Definition

a beautiful woman, especially the most beautiful at a particular event or in a particular place.

Using belle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "belle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She was the belle of the ball.

  • Example

    The actress was considered the belle of Hollywood in the 1950s.

  • Example

    The city's most eligible bachelors vied for the attention of the belle of the season.

belle Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for belle

Antonyms for belle

  • ugly woman
  • plain Jane

Idioms Using belle

  • ring a bell

    sound familiar or remind someone of something

    Example

    The name doesn't ring a bell. I don't think I've met him before.

  • as clear as a bell

    very clear and easy to hear or understand

    Example

    Her voice was as clear as a bell, even from across the room.

  • saved by the bell

    rescued from an awkward or difficult situation by a timely interruption

    Example

    I was saved by the bell when my phone rang during an uncomfortable conversation.

Phrases with belle

  • a young woman of the American South's upper socioeconomic class known for their charm and beauty

    Example

    Scarlett O'Hara is a classic example of a Southern belle.

  • a woman who is considered the most attractive on the beach

    Example

    She was the belle of the beach with her stunning figure and golden tan.

  • a woman who is considered the most beautiful or charming at a dance or social gathering

    Example

    She was the belle of the ball in her elegant gown and sparkling jewelry.

Origins of belle

from French 'belle', feminine of 'beau' meaning 'beautiful'

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Summary: belle in Brief

'Belle' [bel] refers to a beautiful woman, often the most beautiful at a particular event or place. It can be used to describe a woman's physical appearance or charm, as in 'She was the belle of the ball.' The term extends into phrases like 'Southern belle,' and idioms like 'ring a bell,' meaning to sound familiar, and 'saved by the bell,' referring to a timely interruption.

How do native speakers use this expression?