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
- beauty
- charmer
- enchantress
- lovely
- attractive woman
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.
Example
Her voice was as clear as a bell, even from across the room.
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.
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'
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.
