cinderella

n. the main character in a famous story who is treated badly by her family but eventually marries a prince.

n. the protagonist of a classic folk tale who overcomes unjust oppression and poverty to achieve triumphant reward.

“In the story, Cinderella loses her glass slipper while running away from the ball.”

“The archetype of Cinderella remains a staple of Western literature, representing the ultimate transition from domestic servitude to royal status.”

adj. used to describe a person or team that suddenly becomes successful after being unknown or ignored.

adj. denoting a person or entity that achieves sudden, unexpected success after a period of obscurity or neglect.

“The small college team had a Cinderella season and made it to the finals.”

“Sports commentators frequently employ the Cinderella narrative when an underdog team defies the odds to reach the championship game.”

Informal

adj. describes something that does not get enough money, attention, or resources.

adj. referring to a service, department, or area of policy that is consistently neglected or denied adequate resources.

“Mental health has often been the Cinderella service of the national healthcare system.”

“The minister promised to increase funding for social care, which had long been regarded as the Cinderella sector of the budget.”

British English · Formal

n. a label that looks like a postage stamp but cannot be used to mail a letter.

n. a stamp-like label issued for purposes other than postal administration, such as advertising or charity, not valid for postage.

“He collects Cinderella stamps that were printed to promote the 1920s trade fairs.”

“While not valid for franking mail, these Cinderella issues are highly prized by specialized philatelists for their intricate designs.”

Technical