Part of Speech

Noun, Slang

Pronunciation

/bjuːt/

Definitions

• A person, typically a woman, who is considered exceptionally attractive or beautiful.
• A term of endearment or admiration used for someone or something that is considered beautiful or impressive.
• A shortened form of "beauty," often used in informal or colloquial contexts.

Usage Examples

• "That car is a real beaut!"
• "She’s a real beaut, isn’t she?"
• "I can't believe we found such a beaut of a house."

Etymology

The word "beaut" is a colloquial shortening of the word "beauty," which comes from the Old French "beaute" (meaning beauty, loveliness), derived from Latin "bellus," meaning "pretty" or "handsome." The slang form "beaut" has been in use since the early 20th century, particularly in American English, as an affectionate or casual term for something or someone beautiful.

Synonyms

• Looker
• Stunner
• Head-turner
• Beauty
• Doll

Antonyms

• Ugly
• Unattractive
• Plain
• Homely

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "beaut" can slightly vary, especially between American and British English. In American English, it is often pronounced as /bjuːt/, while in British English, the pronunciation may lean more toward /bjuːt/ or /bʊt/ depending on regional accents.

Historical Usage

The term "beaut" has been used for over a century in colloquial English, particularly to describe a person or object that is admired for its appearance. It has remained in popular use within informal settings and is often associated with expressions of admiration or approval.

Cultural Nuances

In contemporary usage, "beaut" is often used affectionately and informally, particularly among friends or peers. It may be used to describe something that is considered particularly impressive or aesthetically pleasing, sometimes beyond mere physical appearance, such as a "beaut of a car" or a "beaut of a sunset."

More Information

The word "beaut" is a slang term that derives from the full word "beauty." It was popularized in the 20th century, particularly in American slang, and has remained in use to this day. The word is not restricted to people; it can be used to describe anything that is admired for its beauty or quality, such as a beautiful object, place, or experience. Its informal nature makes it a versatile term for casual conversation.