Simple Definition of governess

from our Learner's Dictionary

governess

noun

plural governesses
: a woman who is paid to care for and teach a child in the child's house

Cite this Entry

“Governess.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/governess. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on governess

More from Merriam-Webster