Conductress

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

UK: /kənˈdʌktrɪs/

US: /kənˈdʌktrəs/

Definitions

• A female conductor, especially one who collects fares on public transport.
• A woman who leads or guides, particularly in music or a formal setting.

Usage Examples

• The conductress collected tickets from passengers on the morning bus.
• She was the first female conductress of the city orchestra.

Etymology

Derived from the word "conductor" with the feminine suffix "-ess," dating back to the early 19th century.

Synonyms

• Bus hostess
• Female guide
• Orchestra leader

Antonyms

• Passenger
• Follower

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /kənˈdʌktrɪs/
• American English: /kənˈdʌktrəs/
• Indian English: /kənˈdʌktrɪs/

Historical Usage

The term 'conductress' was more common in the 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily used in transport services and formal guiding roles.

Cultural Nuances

In some countries, the term 'conductress' is now rarely used, replaced by gender-neutral terms like 'conductor.' However, in parts of India and Africa, it is still used for female bus or train conductors.

More Information

The role of a conductress has evolved over time, with the term becoming less common in modern English. Historically, female conductors were more prevalent during wartime, when they replaced men in transport jobs. Today, the emphasis on gender neutrality in job titles has led to a decline in the term’s usage.