How Do You Spell VIRGINAL?

Pronunciation: [vɜːd͡ʒˈa͡ɪnə͡l] (IPA)

The word "virginal" refers to something that is pure, untouched, or inexperienced. It is spelled /vərˈdʒɪnəl/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable begins with a schwa sound, followed by a "v" sound. The "g" and "n" sounds are blended together to create a nasal "ng" sound. The final syllable ends with a neutral vowel sound, followed by an "l" sound. This spelling reflects the word's Latin origin, virginalis, which means "of a maiden or virgin."

VIRGINAL Meaning and Definition

  1. Virginal is an adjective that describes something or someone pertaining to virginity or the state of being a virgin, which typically refers to someone who has not engaged in sexual intercourse. This term can be used to describe both males and females. It implies the absence of sexual experience or encounters, particularly in the context of intimate relationships.

    The term "virginal" can also be used to describe an object or artifact that pertains to or resembles a virgin or virginity. In this sense, it can refer to something that is pure, untouched, or unspoiled. For example, a pristine white dress may be described as virginal due to its resemblance to innocence and purity.

    The word can also be used more broadly to describe something that is new, fresh, or in its original condition. For instance, a piece of untouched land can be referred to as virginal because it has not been developed or altered.

    Furthermore, the term "virginal" is also used to describe a musical instrument associated with the harpsichord family. A virginal is a small, rectangular keyboard instrument that was popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. It typically has one manual and a characteristic sound produced by plucking strings with quills.

    Overall, the term "virginal" encompasses various meanings depending on the context, ranging from sexual purity to innocence, untouched states, and even a specific type of musical instrument.

  2. Relating to a virgin, innocent; virgin (2).

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. An anc. keyed musical instr., so named from being used by maidens or virgins.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for VIRGINAL *

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Etymology of VIRGINAL

The word "virginal" has its etymological origins in the Latin word "virginalis", which means pertaining to a virgin or a virgin-like state. This Latin word is derived from "virgo", which means a maiden or a virgin. In English, "virginal" initially referred to a young girl or a virgin woman. Over time, it came to be associated with purity and innocence, expanding its meaning to describe something unspoiled or untouched. In the musical context, "virginal" specifically refers to a type of keyboard instrument that was popular in the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Similar spelling words for VIRGINAL