modiste

noun

mo·​diste mō-ˈdēst How to pronounce modiste (audio)
: one who makes and sells fashionable dresses and hats for women

Examples of modiste in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But at least a conversation about Cressida's love for the new modiste in town sparks an idea in Penelope. — Sara Netzley, EW.com, 26 Mar. 2022 That's right—someone besides the modiste finally knows Whistledown's identity, and Eloise is considerably less pleased about it. — ELLE, 2 Apr. 2022 New characters are introduced, such as the gossip-loving Queen Charlotte and modiste Genevieve Delacroix, and a few subplots are reimagined. — Leah Campano, Seventeen, 24 Mar. 2022 Not only is wearing the perfect gown of the utmost importance when preparing for a ball, the modiste herself plays a crucial part in Lady Whistledown's success. — Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 2 May 2022 Owning his birthright as the second son, Benedict (Luke Thompson) experiments with a bohemian lifestyle as an artist, gets intrigued by gay men, but opts for a tryst with the modiste instead. — Zoe Haylock, Vulture, 16 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from mode style, mode

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of modiste was in 1802

Rhymes for modiste

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Browse Nearby Words

modish
modiste
modius
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Modiste.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modiste. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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