bridesmaid

American  

[brahydz-meyd] / ˈbraɪdzˌmeɪd /

noun

1. a young woman who attends the bride at a wedding ceremony.

2. Informal. a person, group, etc., that is in a secondary position, never quite attains a goal, etc..

   Bridesmaids for 12 seasons, the Eagles finally won the championship.

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bridesmaid British  

/ ˈbraɪdzˌmeɪd /

noun

1. a girl or young unmarried woman who attends a bride at her wedding Compare matron of honour maid of honour

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Etymology

Origin of bridesmaid

First recorded in 1545–55; bride ¹ + 's ¹ + maid

Example Sentences

Taking the initiative in this way also establishes a clear boundary and may, at the very least, motivate this bridesmaid to drop out earlier rather than at the last minute.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 30, 2026

Fighting back tears as she placed flowers at the scene on Monday, Joanne said Sarah – who was a bridesmaid at her wedding – "left a mark with absolutely everyone she met".

From BBC • Jan. 5, 2026

Don’t let this maid of honor, or the stress of being a bridesmaid, rob the ceremony of its cheer.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 8, 2025

On Facebook and elsewhere, buyers are venting about hundreds of dollars due on mouse pads, makeup and bridesmaid dresses.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 7, 2025

“Fleur’s sister’s a bridesmaid, she needs to be here for the rehearsal, and she’s too young to come on her own,” said Hermione, as she pored indecisively over Break with a Banshee.

From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling