What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
maiden
Example
The maiden voyage of the ship was a success. [maiden: adjective]
Example
She was a fair maiden with long golden hair. [maiden: noun]
virgin
Example
She was a virgin until she got married. [virgin: noun]
Example
The virgin snow was undisturbed by footprints. [virgin: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Virgin is more commonly used than maiden in everyday language, particularly in the context of sexual history. Maiden is less common and has a more formal and literary tone.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between maiden and virgin?
Both maiden and virgin are more formal than casual in tone, but maiden has a more old-fashioned and literary connotation, while virgin has a more scientific and technical connotation.
