Du*en"na (?), n.; pl. Duennas (#). [Sp. duena, dona, fr. L. domina. See Dame.]

1.

The chief lady in waiting on the queen of Spain.

Brande.

2.

An elderly lady holding a station between a governess and companion, and appointed to have charge over the younger ladies in a Spanish or a Portuguese family.

Brande & C.

3.

Any old woman who is employed to guard a younger one; a governess.

Arbuthnot.

 

© Webster 1913.