# governess

/ˈɡəvɝnəs/ (US) · /ɡˈʌvənˌɛs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/governess
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a woman who is hired to teach and take care of children in a private home. This word is more common in old stories or historical books.

For teachers: a female teacher or domestic worker employed to educate and supervise children in a private household. Often used in historical or literary contexts to describe a domestic staff member of high social standing.

## Examples

- The governess taught the children to read and write.
- In the 19th century, many wealthy families employed a governess to provide a private education for their daughters.
- The novel explores the complex relationship between a young governess and the children she is hired to educate, highlighting the social isolation and emotional tension of her position.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.