Meaning & use

doyenne

noun·Advanced

The most respected, experienced, or senior woman in a particular profession or field.

See it in a sentence

Critics regard her as the doyenne of contemporary French cooking.

The doyenne of the fashion house mentored three generations of young designers.

A note on using this word

The masculine equivalent is "doyen"; both terms suggest long-standing respect earned through years of experience.

Words with a similar meaning

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