Word Study
beguine
CIDE DICTIONARY
beguine, n. [F. béguine; LL. beguina, beghina; fr. Lambert le Bègue (the Stammerer) the founder of the order. (Du Cange.)].
A woman belonging to one of the religious and charitable associations or communities in the Netherlands, and elsewhere, whose members live in beguinages and are not bound by perpetual vows. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
beguine, n.
1 a popular dance of W. Indian origin.
2 its rhythm.
1 a popular dance of W. Indian origin.
2 its rhythm.
Etymology
Amer. F f. F b{eacute}guin infatuation
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