Chaperone
SHAP-uh-rohn
/ˈʃæpəroʊn/
An adult who accompanies and supervises young people at a social gathering.
A chaperone's role is typically to ensure safety, good behavior, and adherence to rules, rather than active participation in the event.
The story behind the word. The word 'chaperone' comes from the Old French 'chaperon,' which originally meant a type of hood or cape. In the 18th century, it evolved to refer to an older woman who accompanied a young unmarried woman in public, much like a hood provides a covering or protection. The idea was that the older woman 'covered' or protected the younger woman's reputation, and this sense of supervision carried over to its modern meaning.
Word relationships
- Supervisor: More general, can apply to work or academic settings, less specific to social events.
- Guardian: Implies legal responsibility, often for a longer term, not just an event.
- Participant: Someone actively involved in the event, not supervising.
Word family
- chaperoning (verb (present participle)): the act of supervising as a chaperone
Collocations
- adult chaperone
- volunteer to chaperone
- chaperone a dance
- chaperone trip
Example sentences
- "Several parents volunteered to chaperone the middle school dance, ensuring everyone had a safe and fun evening." Describing a parent's role at a school event.
- "My aunt agreed to chaperone my younger sister's birthday party, keeping an eye on all the energetic kids." Using the word as a verb.
- "No school event is permitted without at least two adult chaperones present at all times." Explaining the necessity of supervision.
Memory hook
A CHAP-erone wears a 'cape' of responsibility to protect and supervise. Cape of protection
When not to use
Do not use 'chaperone' for an adult who is merely attending an event with young people without a supervisory role.
Fun facts
- Originally, a chaperone was often a married woman who accompanied an unmarried woman to social events to ensure propriety.
Related words
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