definition of the term maiden voyage

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Meaning of maiden voyage in English

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• break-journey
• circumnavigation

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• What is a Maiden Voyage?

The term maiden voyage refers to the first expedition made by a vessel after its performance has been tested. The term has also been used to mean a person’s first time doing something. Before a ship’s maiden voyage, a bottle of alcohol (usually champagne) is broken over the ship’s bow for good luck. The history associated with maiden voyages dates back to ancient times with ancient civilizations having special ceremonies to invoke their gods to protect them on long ocean voyages. The ancients brought shrines into their ships, and the tradition proceeded long into the Middle Ages. Most ships have successful maiden voyages; however, some have been tragic, with the most famous being the RMS Titanic.

Notable Maiden Voyages

The rms titanic.

The RMS Titanic was one of the world’s most famous ships not only because it was the largest ship at the time of its completion but also because it met a tragic end during its maiden voyage. The owners of the Titanic chose to forego the traditional elaborate ship launching ceremony. The ship’s maiden voyage began on April 10, 1912, under the command of Captain Edward Smith with about 2,224 people on board. Two days after the ship’s launch at around 11:40 pm the ship struck an iceberg on the starboard side which allowed water to get into the ship. The ship took around 2 hours and 40 minutes to completely sink with the death toll estimated at more than 1,500 people. Most of the deaths were due to the ship’s crew not being adequately prepared for such an event and the ship not having enough lifeboats.

Launched on June 10, 1875, the Mohawk was owned by William T. Garner and was the largest racing yacht of the time at 140 feet. The yacht’s doomed maiden voyage began on July 20, 1876, off Staten Island with the entire Garner family on board. A sudden violent gust of wind struck the yacht making it capsize. The accident had no survivor as everyone on board drowned. The yacht was later recovered and renamed the Eagre. The Eagre participated in a survey of the Nantucket Shoals led by Lieutenant E.M. Hughes.

The Vasa was constructed at the command of King Gustavus Adolphus as the flagship of the standby regiment. The ship was under the command of Captain Sofring Hansson who received the command to set sail on the ship’s maiden voyage on August 10, 1628, from Alvsnabben. After a journey of approximately 4,200 feet to Tegelviken, water began filling the ship from the open gun ports. A strong wind had filled the ship’s sails, and because it was unstable, it was unable to right itself when forced on the port side. Thirty people died in spite of all the efforts of ships nearby. The ship was salvaged in 1961 and is now a major tourist attraction.

Safety Standards on Present-day Vessels

To prevent a catastrophic loss of life on a transport vessel stringent safety requirements have been set up. All ships are required to have enough lifeboats for all the people on board and the crew expected to be trained on proper evacuation procedures. Transport vessels are only certified once they have proven to have met all the required safety measures.

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Definition of 'maiden voyage'

Maiden voyage in american english, maiden voyage in british english, examples of 'maiden voyage' in a sentence maiden voyage, trends of maiden voyage.

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maiden voyage

• 1.1 Etymology
• 1.2.1 Translations

English [ edit ]

Etymology [ edit ].

See maiden ( adjective ) .

Noun [ edit ]

maiden voyage ( plural maiden voyages )

• 1998 , Cynthia Bass, Maiden Voyage ‎ [1] , Random House Publishing Group, →ISBN : For one thing, it was a maiden voyage , which always meant both passengers and staff were a little giddier, a little looser, than usual.

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maiden voyage noun

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What does the noun maiden voyage mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun maiden voyage . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

How common is the noun maiden voyage ?

Where does the noun maiden voyage come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun maiden voyage is in the 1820s.

OED's earliest evidence for maiden voyage is from 1823, in European Magazine .

maiden voyage is formed within English, by compounding.

Etymons: maiden n. & adj. , voyage n.

Nearby entries

• maiden-servant, n. 1533–1740
• maidenship, n. 1602–
• maiden's honesty, n. 1691–
• maiden-skate, n. a1795–
• maidens' light, n. 1547–8
• maidens' milk, n. ?c1450
• maiden speech, n. 1702–
• maiden's water, n. 1975–
• maiden's wreath, n. 1893–
• maiden-thought, n. 1818–
• maiden voyage, n. 1823–
• maiden-wax, n. 1726
• maidenweed, n. a1325–1718
• maiden-widowed, adj. 1599
• maideux, int. c1450–1500
• maid face, n. c1450
• maid-faced, adj. 1610
• maid-fish, n. 1665–1810
• maidhead, n. a1393–1621
• maidhood, n. a1200–
• maidish, adj. 1822–

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Meaning & use

Entry history for maiden voyage, n..

Originally published as part of the entry for maiden, n. & adj.

maiden, n. & adj. was revised in June 2000.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

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Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1904)

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OED Second Edition (1989)

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Citation details

Factsheet for maiden voyage, n., browse entry.

What Are Maiden and Inaugural Voyages?

Recently, Celebrity Cruises recently announced that the much-anticipated Celebrity Edge is ahead of schedule and will begin sailing earlier than expected.  While this is generally great news, there are some who may be less than thrilled, and this made us stop and wonder - what is a "maiden voyage?"

Edge's Maiden Voyage Plans

In June of 2017 we shared that Celebrity Edge 's maiden voyage would be December 16, 2018 out of her home port of Port Everglades in Ft Lauderdale, FL.  She'll still be sailing that voyage, which is a seven night Eastern Caribbean sailing to San Juan , Tortola , and St Maarten.  The early completion however means that her first sailing (sort of, we'll get to that...) is now November 21st, 2018. 

“Thanks to the amazing work of the STX France shipyard team , the industry-changing Celebrity Edge is now scheduled to arrive much earlier than anticipated, which gave us the opportunity to offer not one, but two maiden voyages,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. “Both of these maiden voyages, plus the taste of luxury preview sailings, will have all of the festivities one would expect from the launch of such a revolutionary new ship, and now even more guests will have the chance to experience these one-of-a-kind inaugural sailings.”

What will Celebrity Edge be doing with that extra time?  Celebrity has added four sailings, three nights each, departing Fort Lauderdale on November 21, November 24, December 3, and December 6.  These sailings are a great way to try out the latest and greatest from Celebrity without committing to a full seven night sailing.  Want a new opportunity for a full seven night sailing?  In addition to the three-nighters, they've added an Western Caribbean seven night sailing out of Ft Lauderdale on December 9, 2018, heading to  Key West , Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Grand Cayman .

Who Might Not Love This?

Passengers with their heart set on sailing Edge's Maiden Voyage might not love this change, as they were booked on what they thought was the first sailing on December 16th, but that's now scheduled to be the sixth cruise for the new ship.  In these type of circumstances though, cruise lines generally give booked guests first crack at changing to a new and earlier sailing.  It brings up a good point though, and something I can't stress enough: They can be fun, but  don't get your heart set on maiden voyages.  Why?  Well, to start, let's take a cue from The Bard and ask, "what's in a name?"

A Sailing By Any Other Name

Often you'll hear two words used about new builds and many of us don't think about what they mean: maiden and inaugural.  What's the difference?  A maiden voyage generally refers to  a first  or  the first.   A ship leaving port with paying passengers for the first time is taking it's maiden voyage.  If that voyage is say, from France to the US, then it's also its maiden transatlantic voyage.  After that trip, perhaps it's going to St Lucia for its maiden Southern Caribbean voyage.  The next sailing, if to Mexico , would be its maiden Western Caribbean voyage.  Get the idea?

An inaugural voyage usually refers to the pomp and circumstance, the celebration of a new ship.  For this reason, a ship based out of South Florida may have a maiden voyage from Europe (where most US-based cruise lines have their ships built), and then an inaugural voyage out of South Florida.  In fact, her first voyage out of South Florida might not be her inaugural, as there might be some sailings for the media, travel agents, etc first.  

To add to this word soup of sailings, often you'll hear about an inaugural season - which could be the first season a ship sails the Caribbean, or the first year a ship sails in general.  

Better to Miss a Maiden Voyage than "Miss the Boat"

Yes, we know, it's a ship .  While Celebrity Edge has seen some changes to her maiden voyage, this is a great reason.  It's not uncommon at all for maiden voyages to be rescheduled because of delays.  Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a 100k+ gross ton ship.  AIDAprima, Oceania Riviera, and Disney Magic are just a few ships which saw delays resulting in the cancellation and changing of sailings, and many unhappy would-be guests, who we're sure cruise lines worked hard to please.  Sometimes the challenges are mechanical, other times they're related to weather, and in the case of the Riviera, a strike at the shipyard caused delays.  

Whatever the cause of delays, this is the other big reason we caution people about booking a maiden voyage.  It's not that we wouldn't do it ourselves, it's just important to keep in mind that things happen, and no matter how angry a guest gets, it won't get the ship completed at a different time.  It's also possible that maiden voyages may offer guests a sparkling new ship with some things still being worked on, like we saw with the Harmony of the Seas when she sailed in Europe with some construction being done before crossing the Atlantic in a more finished state.

Wrapping it Up

With any ship-building project, nevermind one as complex and innovative as Edge, an early completion is really impressive.  We get very excited about these things, and we hope you do too, but it's no secret that the more a cruise line can use the words "inaugural" and "maiden" the more excitement and urgency there will be about booking those sailings and the more shirts and other onboard merchandise that will be sold.  Because we want to prove that we're not bitter about the name game that is in play with new ships, you'll find CruiseHabit on a couple of these sailings, and certainly buying up a few " Celebrity Edge Inaugural Season" t-shirts, bags, commemorative ping-pong balls, and anything else we can find.  

Check the gallery below for more inaugural swag, some of which wasn't available to the public. 

Have you sailed on a ship's maiden voyage?  Do you have one booked?  Let us know in the comments below or reach out on Twitter or Facebook !

View the discussion thread.

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• Travel Tips

What Does Maiden Voyage Mean

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Valaria Schleicher

• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Have you ever wondered what the term “maiden voyage” means? It carries a sense of adventure, anticipation, and the thrill of embarking on a journey into the unknown. In the world of travel and exploration, the maiden voyage holds a special significance, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in history.

A maiden voyage refers to the inaugural journey of a newly built ship or an aircraft. It marks the first time that the vessel sets sail or takes to the skies with passengers on board. This momentous occasion is filled with excitement and often accompanied by various traditions and superstitions.

Throughout history, the concept of a maiden voyage has been intertwined with tales of bravery, exploration, and discovery. Some of the most famous voyages have gone down in legend, leaving an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.

Whether it is the Titanic setting off on its ill-fated maiden voyage or Christopher Columbus embarking on his expedition across the Atlantic, these journeys represent bold endeavors that have shaped the course of history.

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of maiden voyages, exploring their historical significance, traditions and superstitions, famous examples, challenges and risks, and their modern interpretation in today’s travel industry.

Definition of Maiden Voyage

A maiden voyage is the first journey undertaken by a newly constructed ship or aircraft, marking its inaugural voyage with passengers or cargo. It is a significant event that symbolizes the culmination of years of planning, construction, and anticipation.

During a maiden voyage, the ship or aircraft sets sail or takes off for the very first time. It represents the moment when the vessel transitions from being a mere construction project to a fully functional mode of transportation. The maiden voyage is an exciting milestone for the shipbuilders, crew, and passengers alike.

Typically, maiden voyages are highly publicized, attracting attention from media outlets and travel enthusiasts. The event often includes ceremonies, christenings, and celebrations to commemorate the ship’s launch and draw attention to its unique features and capabilities.

The duration and destination of a maiden voyage can vary. Some may be short excursions designed to test the vessel’s systems and ensure its seaworthiness, while others may be longer journeys meant to showcase its capabilities or establish new trade routes.

The significance of a maiden voyage extends beyond the physical journey itself. It represents a new chapter in transportation history, marking advancements in technology, design, and innovation. It is a testament to human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration.

The maiden voyage is also an opportunity for shipbuilders, operators, and crew members to assess and refine the vessel’s performance, comfort, and safety features. It allows them to identify any potential issues or areas for improvement before the ship or aircraft goes into regular service.

Overall, a maiden voyage symbolizes the excitement of new beginnings, the thrill of adventure, and the hope for successful and prosperous journeys ahead.

Historical Significance

Maiden voyages hold great historical significance, as they mark pivotal moments in transportation history and have often been associated with pioneering achievements and exploration.

Throughout the ages, maiden voyages have been catalysts for groundbreaking discoveries, the establishment of new trade routes, and the expansion of empires. They have allowed civilizations to connect and exchange goods, ideas, and cultures.

One of the most famous historical maiden voyages is that of Christopher Columbus in 1492. His voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, seeking a shorter trade route to Asia, resulted in the discovery of the Americas, forever altering the course of world history.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, the maiden voyages of steamships and ocean liners played a crucial role in the era of mass migration and trade expansion. These grand vessels transported millions of immigrants, goods, and materials across continents and oceans, facilitating the growth of nations and the globalization of economies.

The maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic in 1912 stands as a tragic testament to the historical significance of these voyages. Intended to be a symbol of luxury and innovation, the ill-fated ship’s sinking on its maiden voyage highlighted the dangers and risks associated with pushing the boundaries of technology and transportation.

Maiden voyages have also seen great advancements in aviation. The Wright brothers’ successful maiden flight in 1903 paved the way for the development of modern aircraft and commercial aviation. Subsequent maiden flights of jet-powered aircraft such as the Boeing 707 and Concorde marked significant milestones in aviation history and revolutionized air travel.

Throughout history, maiden voyages have captured the imagination of people around the world, symbolizing human ambition, exploration, and the pursuit of progress. They have expanded our understanding of the world, opened new frontiers, and left an indelible mark on our collective history.

Traditions and Superstitions

Maiden voyages are steeped in traditions and superstitions that have been passed down through generations. These rituals and beliefs aim to bring good luck, safe passage, and prosperous journeys to the newly launched vessel and its passengers.

One common tradition during a maiden voyage is the christening ceremony. This involves breaking a bottle of champagne or another beverage against the ship’s hull or airplane’s exterior. The shattering of the glass symbolizes good fortune and serves as a ceremonial blessing for the vessel and all who sail or fly on it.

Another well-known tradition is the hoisting of signal flags. Ships often raise a series of colorful flags to spell out messages or codes. This practice originated as a way to communicate with other vessels or shore stations before the invention of wireless communication. During a maiden voyage, hoisting special signal flags can signify the ship’s inaugural journey.

In addition to these ceremonies, various superstitions surround maiden voyages. Some sailors believe it is bad luck to begin a voyage on a Friday, a belief that dates back to the medieval era. This superstition led to the term “Freaky Friday” or “Black Friday” when referring to this supposedly ill-fated day.

Another common superstition is the tradition of placing a coin under the mast of a ship. It is believed that this act will bring good luck and a safe return to all aboard. It also symbolizes a payment to the gods or the mythical figures protecting the crew and passengers.

Additionally, some sailors and passengers believe in the “whispers of the sea” superstition, which suggests that speaking certain words or phrases on a ship may bring about bad luck or calamity. To avoid tempting fate, nautical terms like “drowning,” “shipwreck,” or “goodbye” are often avoided during a voyage.

Overall, these traditions and superstitions surrounding maiden voyages reflect the deep-rooted beliefs and reverence for the unpredictable and vast expanses of the sea and sky. They serve as a way to invoke protection, bring luck, and honor the rich history and traditions of the maritime and aviation industries.

Famous Maiden Voyages

Throughout history, there have been several maiden voyages that have captured the attention and imagination of the public. These journeys, whether successful or met with tragedy, have left an enduring legacy and become a part of our collective consciousness.

One of the most famous maiden voyages is undoubtedly that of the RMS Titanic. The White Star Line’s luxurious ocean liner embarked on its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, to New York City in 1912. However, tragedy struck when the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank in the North Atlantic Ocean. This catastrophic event has since become one of the most well-known maritime disasters in history.

The maiden voyage of the Mayflower in 1620 is another renowned journey. The Pilgrims, seeking religious freedom, sailed from Plymouth, England, to the shores of present-day Massachusetts. This historic voyage marked the establishment of Plymouth Colony, which would later become one of the earliest successful English settlements in North America.

In the realm of aviation, the inaugural flight of the Wright brothers’ Flyer in 1903 is an iconic maiden voyage. This aircraft, designed and built by Orville and Wilbur Wright, made its historic 12-second flight in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This event marked the birth of powered human flight and laid the foundation for modern aviation.

Another significant maiden voyage is that of the Graf Zeppelin in 1928. This German airship embarked on its inaugural transatlantic voyage, completing a round trip from Friedrichshafen, Germany, to Lakehurst, New Jersey, in the United States. The success of the Graf Zeppelin demonstrated the possibility of long-distance air travel and paved the way for future advancements in airship technology.

In recent years, the maiden voyage of the RMS Queen Mary 2 stands out as a momentous event. The Cunard Line’s ocean liner, launched in 2004, embarked on its maiden transatlantic crossing from Southampton, England, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This luxurious vessel has since become an iconic symbol of grand ocean travel and continues to captivate passengers with its elegance and opulence.

These famous maiden voyages have left a lasting impact on the maritime and aviation industries, shaping our understanding of travel, technology, and human endurance. They serve as reminders of the triumphs and tragedies that accompany pioneering journeys into the unknown.

Challenges and Risks

Maiden voyages are not without their challenges and risks, as they mark the first time a vessel sets sail or takes flight with passengers on board. These risks can range from technical difficulties to unpredictable weather conditions and everything in between.

One of the primary challenges faced during a maiden voyage is ensuring that the newly constructed vessel is fully prepared for its journey. Despite rigorous testing during the construction process, unforeseen technical issues may arise once the ship or aircraft is put into service. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to major malfunctions, potentially impacting the operation, comfort, and safety of the passengers.

In addition to technical challenges, maiden voyages are also subject to the whims of nature. Unpredictable weather conditions, such as storms, hurricanes, or heavy fog, can pose significant risks to the vessel and its passengers. Captains and crew members must carefully navigate these conditions, relying on their experience and navigational tools to ensure a safe passage.

Another potential risk during a maiden voyage is the lack of familiarity with the vessel’s systems and processes. Crew members may still be adjusting to their roles and responsibilities, and communication between different departments may require time to optimize. This can lead to delays or confusion in operations, requiring extra vigilance and coordination from the crew to mitigate potential risks.

Furthermore, the maiden voyage may also attract unwanted attention. Pirates, thieves, or saboteurs may see the inaugural journey as an opportunity to exploit the vessel’s vulnerability or valuable cargo. Enhanced security measures and precautions are necessary to ensure the safety and protection of the vessel, passengers, and crew.

Despite these challenges and risks, meticulous planning, thorough testing, and experienced crews help minimize potential issues that may arise during a maiden voyage. The lessons learned from previous voyages and technological advancements have significantly improved the safety and reliability of modern ships and aircraft, providing reassurance to those embarking on these historic journeys.

Modern Interpretations

In today’s fast-paced world, maiden voyages have taken on new meanings and interpretations, extending beyond the traditional launch of a ship or aircraft. Modern interpretations of maiden voyages encompass a wide range of industries and activities, reflecting the spirit of exploration, innovation, and new beginnings.

One prominent example of a modern interpretation of a maiden voyage is the launch of a new technology product or digital service. Just like a ship or aircraft, these products and services undergo extensive development and testing before being introduced to the market. The release of a new smartphone, for instance, can be seen as its maiden voyage, marking the beginning of a new era in communication and technology.

Similarly, the opening of a new restaurant, hotel, or resort can be considered a maiden voyage in the hospitality industry. It represents the culmination of design, construction, and training efforts, creating an opportunity to showcase innovative concepts, exquisite cuisine, and exceptional guest experiences. This maiden voyage sets the stage for the future success and reputation of the establishment.

In addition, the concept of a maiden voyage has also been embraced by the space exploration industry. The launch of a new spacecraft or satellite symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter in our exploration of the cosmos. These missions push the boundaries of human knowledge and pave the way for further advancements in space research and travel.

Furthermore, individuals embarking on a significant life change or personal milestone can view it as their own maiden voyage. Starting a new job, relocating to a new city, or even getting married can be seen as a bold venture into uncharted territory. These personal “maiden voyages” offer the chance for growth, self-discovery, and the forging of new paths.

Through these modern interpretations, the concept of a maiden voyage continues to inspire and commemorate significant journeys, achievements, and innovations across a variety of industries. It embraces the spirit of adventure, risk-taking, and the pursuit of progress, reminding us of the boundless opportunities that await those who embark on new endeavors.

The concept of the maiden voyage holds a special place in the realm of travel and exploration. Whether it is a newly built ship, an aircraft, or a groundbreaking product, the maiden voyage symbolizes the beginning of an exciting journey into the unknown.

Throughout history, maiden voyages have played a significant role in shaping our world. They have facilitated trade, led to the discovery of new lands, and marked technological advancements. From the tragic tale of the Titanic to the pioneering flights of the Wright brothers, these voyages have left a lasting impact on our collective consciousness.

Traditions and superstitions have long been associated with maiden voyages, serving as a way to bring luck, protection, and good fortune. The challenges and risks faced during these journeys, including technical issues, unpredictable weather, and security threats, highlight the complexity and excitement that comes with venturing into new territories.

In the modern era, the interpretation of a maiden voyage has expanded to encompass various industries and personal milestones. From the launch of a new technology product or a restaurant to embarking on a new chapter in life, the spirit of the maiden voyage celebrates innovation, progress, and new beginnings.

As we reflect on the significance of maiden voyages, we are reminded of the human desire for exploration, the perseverance to overcome challenges, and the hope for a prosperous future. These voyages carry with them a sense of adventure, anticipation, and the potential to reshape our world.

So whether you find yourself embarking on your own personal maiden voyage or marveling at the inaugural journey of a newly constructed vessel, may the spirit of discovery and the thrill of the unknown guide you on your voyage of exploration and growth.

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Definition of voyage noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• an around-the-world voyage
• a voyage in space
• The Titanic sank on its maiden voyage (= first journey) .
• (figurative) Going to college can be a voyage of self-discovery.
• Darwin’s epic voyage of exploration
• reconnaissance
• Lady Franklin kept a journal during the voyage.
• The ship completed her maiden voyage in May.
• There were mainly scientists on the voyage.
• Bering's voyage of discovery was one of many scientific expeditions in the 18th century.
• The ship began its return voyage to Europe.
• The ship was badly damaged during the voyage from Plymouth.
• They set off on their voyage around the world.
• Writing a biography can be an absorbing voyage of discovery.
• during a/​the voyage
• on a/​the voyage
• voyage from
• a voyage of discovery

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Definition of maiden

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of maiden  (Entry 2 of 2)

Examples of maiden in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'maiden.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Noun and Adjective

Middle English, from Old English mægden, mǣden , diminutive of mægeth ; akin to Old High German magad maiden, Old Irish mug serf

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Phrases Containing maiden

• maiden name
• iron maiden
• sea - maiden

Dictionary Entries Near maiden

maiden's-blush

Cite this Entry

“Maiden.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maiden. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of maiden.

Kids Definition of maiden  (Entry 2 of 2)

More from Merriam-Webster on maiden

Nglish: Translation of maiden for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of maiden for Arabic Speakers

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maiden (n.)

Old English mægden , mæden "unmarried woman (usually young); virgin; girl; maidservant," diminutive of mægð , mægeð "virgin, girl; woman, wife," from Proto-Germanic *magadin- "young womanhood, sexually inexperienced female" (source also of Old Saxon magath , Old Frisian maged , Old High German magad "virgin, maid," German Magd "maid, maidservant," German Mädchen "girl, maid," from Mägdchen "little maid"), fem. variant of PIE root *maghu- "youngster of either sex, unmarried person" (source also of Old English magu "child, son, male descendant," Avestan magava- "unmarried," Old Irish maug "slave").

Also in Middle English "a man lacking or abstaining from sexual experience" (c. 1200). As the name of a guillotine-like instrument of execution by beheading, from 1580s.

maiden (adj.)

c. 1300, "virgin, unmarried," from maiden (n.). The figurative sense of "new, fresh, untried; first" (as in maiden voyage ) is by 1550s. In horse-racing (1760) it denotes young horses that have never run before. Maiden name "family name of a woman before her marriage" is from 1680s.

Entries linking to maiden

c. 1300, gyrle "child, young person" (of either sex but most frequently of females), of unknown origin. One guess [OED] leans toward an unrecorded Old English *gyrele , from Proto-Germanic *gurwilon- , diminutive of *gurwjoz (apparently also represented by Low German gære "boy, girl," Norwegian dialectal gorre , Swedish dialectal gurre "small child," though the exact relationship, if any, between all these is obscure), from PIE *ghwrgh- , also found in Greek parthenos "virgin." But this involves some objectionable philology. Liberman (2008) writes:

Girl does not go back to any Old English or Old Germanic form. It is part of a large group of Germanic words whose root begins with a g or k and ends in r. The final consonant in girl is a diminutive suffix. The g-r words denote young animals, children, and all kinds of creatures considered immature, worthless, or past their prime.

Another candidate is Old English gierela "garment" (for possible sense evolution in this theory, compare brat ). A former folk-etymology derivation from Latin garrulus "chattering, talkative" is now discarded. Like boy , lass , lad it is of more or less obscure origin. "Probably most of them arose as jocular transferred uses of words that had originally different meaning" [OED]. Specific meaning of "female child" is late 14c. Applied to "any young unmarried woman" since mid-15c. Meaning "sweetheart" is from 1640s. Old girl in reference to a woman of any age is recorded from 1826. Girl next door as a type of unflashy attractiveness is recorded by 1953 (the title of a 20th Century Fox film starring June Haver).

Doris [Day] was a big vocalist even before she hit the movies in 1948. There, as the latest movie colony "girl next door," sunny-faced Doris soon became a leading movie attraction as well as the world's top female recording star. "She's the girl next door, all right," said one Hollywood admirer. "Next door to the bank." [Life magazine, Dec. 22, 1958]

Girl Friday "resourceful young woman assistant" is from 1940, a reference to "Robinson Crusoe." Girl Scout is from 1909. For the usual Old English word, see maiden .

c. 1200 (late 12c. in place names and surnames), "an unmarried woman (usually young); the Virgin Mary;" shortening of maiden (n.). Like that word, used in Middle English of unmarried men as well as women (as in maiden-man , c. 1200, which was used of both sexes, reflecting also the generic use of man ).

From c. 1300 as "a virgin," also as "maidservant, female attendant, lady in waiting." By c. 1500 this had yielded the humbler sense of "female servant or attendant charged with domestic duties." Often with a qualifying word ( housemaid , chambermaid , etc.); maid of all work "female servant who performs general housework" is by 1790.

Her Mamma was a famous Fryer of Fishes,

Squeezer of Mops, Washer of Dishes,

From tossing of Pancakes would not Shirk,

In English plain, a Maid of all Work.

But don't mistake me, by Divinity,

When I mention Maid, I don't mean Virginity 

[from "Countess of Fame and her Trumpeter," 1793]

In reference to Joan of Arc, attested from 1540s (French la Pucelle ). Maid Marian , the Queen of the May in the morris dances, also one of Robin Hood's companions, is recorded by 1520s, perhaps from French, where Robin et Marian have been stock names for country lovers since 13c. Maid of Honor (1580s) originally was "unmarried lady of noble birth who attends a queen or princess;" meaning "principal bridesmaid" is attested from 1895. Maydelond (translating Latin terra feminarum ) was "the land of the Amazons."

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What To Know: Maiden Voyage Meaning

• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Brackish Water

• by anchorsupcarolina
• November 18, 2021
• Boating , Brackish Water , Freshwater , Georgia , North Carolina , Saltwater , South Carolina

We all have heard the term maiden voyage. Whether it be a movie, at a marina, a theatrical play, or a chit-chat with friends, the term is widely used for multiple purposes. Whether it be a ship, train, car, dirt bike, go-cart, bicycle, or any other object that moves, someone has referred to the first adventure as the maiden voyage. We are a boating website; therefore, here is what to know about a boat’s maiden voyage meaning. 

What Is The Meaning Of The Term Maiden Voyage

To understand a maiden ship meaning the maiden voyage is best described as the first journey after receiving the newly constructed vessel from the builder. 

If you’re wondering why is it called maiden voyage that is because it has never traveled across water since the vessel was built.

The term most frequently applies to ships; however, the meaning of maiden voyage also applies to recreational boaters who celebrate their first trip on the water. The first journey of a personally owned boat, transport vessel, or cruise ship must be a grand occasion. Only one time in the watercraft’s life will it embark on its first adventure.

On What Bodies of Water Do Vessels Take Maiden Voyages

The body of water does not dictate maiden voyages. The celebrated first journey occurs on lakes, rivers, reservoirs, coastal regions, and the open ocean. 

No matter the boating environment, it is essential to gather friends and family to introduce the new boat. Therefore, it will become a grand celebration.  

How Do You Celebrate The First Adventure On A Personally Owned Vessel

Let’s face it, boats are expensive, and the moment you take possession and head out on the water must be celebrated. Remember, years of hard work went into the ability to complete the purchase of your shiny new boat. 

Invite Your Water Loving Friends And Family

Pick up the phone and call or text your friends and invite them dockside for the ceremony. Future passengers must take part in the process to feel a special connection to the newly acquired vessel. 

Naming The Boat

In understanding maiden trip meaning, naming the boat is a critical component. While everyone has gathered together dockside, it is essential to announce the vessel’s name. Most importantly, listen to the cheers of excitement from the newly named boat.  

Christening Bottle

Now, wait a minute, don’t just go and buy a bottle of champagne and expect not to damage your perfect paint job as you smash it across the bow. Your friends will be left scratching their heads from the deep fiberglass gouge left by the bottle. Inflicting damage does not coincide with the maiden ride meaning.

Pre-scoured bottles are available to prevent damage when smashed against the hull. Additionally, the bottle is held in a decorative bag catching the shards of glass and containing them from falling into the water. We recommend the Gallyware Company Christening Bottle available on Amazon. 

While the crowd has assembled for the ceremony, take each guest for a short ride around the marina or calm waterway. Of course, only if you feel comfortable operating the vessel safely. Avoid receiving a citation by limiting the number of guests per trip. When it comes to the maiden voyage definition, the celebration is one of the grandest parts.

To better understand the maiden journey meaning it is often associated with alcohol. Make it a grand event like the inaugural journey of a cruise ship where champagne flows. Load a cooler with frosty refreshments, including beer, white wine, and champagne. However, don’t leave out the red wine. An important reminder is for the operator to avoid indulging in the beverages until after the boat is secured for the evening. 

Do Vessels Sink On Maiden Voyages

As unbelievable as it may sound, vessels sink on maiden voyages. One of the most notable ships to sink is the Titanic. When thinking of what is a maiden voyage you do not picture losing the watercraft to the seafloor on the first trip.

Before the inaugural journey, ensure that you can operate the vessel safely and understand what to do in the event of emergencies. Sinking the watercraft on its first adventure would be a devastating situation. Never risk lives by knowing the behaviors, the ins and outs of the vessel, nautical terms , and maritime laws. 

Now You Know What There Is To Know About A Maiden Voyage

Now you have a good understanding of what does maiden voyage mean. While we have seen the christening of sea-going vessels in movies or on the news, celebrate the purchase of your newly owned boat before its maiden voyage. The mild winters allow for year round boating in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. A small gathering is a fun experience to be had by all. Ensure to have all safety equipment on board and make the adventure a memorable experience. Everyone will be asking to come back again. Therefore you now understand a maiden voyage meaning.

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