Definition: A woman, specifically one with great control, authority or ownership

Alright class, settle down now, let’s take a look at this word today – "mistress." The dictionary gives you a good start, doesn’t it? “A woman…with great control, authority or ownership.” That’s certainly part of the picture. But words are tricky things, and their meaning can shift over time. Now, traditionally, ‘mistress’ has carried a rather complex history. Historically, it often referred to the wife of a nobleman – think of a landowner's spouse. It was a title of respect, signifying her position within that household. She held influence, naturally! However, and this is very important, the word also took on a different meaning over time, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. It became associated with a woman who ran a household or establishment – often a boarding house, inn, or even a brothel. In these situations, she held significant control over the place and those within it. Now, be careful! Today, using “mistress” to describe a romantic partner can be incredibly sensitive. It carries connotations of power dynamics that aren’t always comfortable or respectful. Let's think about this: a powerful queen might have control , yes indeed, But calling her "mistress" isn’t the way we proceed! So, to summarise: “Mistress” can mean a wife of a nobleman, a woman in charge of an establishment, or – sadly, and with caution – it can be used to describe a romantic relationship. Are there any questions about this word? Don't hesitate to ask if something isn’t clear. Let's discuss the nuances and understand how context is key when interpreting language!

Definition: (Cause of) discomfort.

Alright class, settle down and listen close to me, We’re tackling a tricky word, for all the world to see! The dictionary tells us "discomfort," that's true, But what is stress? Let’s break it through. Stress isn't just feeling a little bit blue, Or when things aren't quite going right for you. It’s like a weight upon your chest, you see, A pressure building – internally! Think of a tightrope walker, balancing so high, That focused strain? That’s stress passing by. It can be worry, fear, or anxious thought, A feeling that something isn't quite well-ought. So discomfort is part of it, you understand, But stress itself is more than just a hand... …That feels heavy and aching with despair, It’s a deeper response, beyond compare! Does anyone have an idea how we can manage the feeling? Let's discuss!

Definition: Unstressed is a term used to describe something that has been or is being stressed in an excessive amount. The most common usage of this term is in relation to music, where it refers to the situation when the artist's voice has become too intense or over-stimulated during performances, leading to a feeling of fatigue and difficulty breathing. It can also apply to other situations in which stress is overwhelming. In the context of English literature, unstressed characters are often characterized by their lack of motivation or enthusiasm, as well as their inability to take risks or make bold decisions. This can lead to a sense of disengagement and a feeling that they are not contributing to anything significant or important. The word "unstressed" can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who has lost interest in something they once loved or enjoyed, and is now suffering from feelings of boredom or ennui. For example, someone who loses their interest in reading or spending time with friends because they are feeling bored or uninterested in what they are doing. Overall, the word "unstressed" refers to a state where there has been too much pressure or stress being placed on an individual or group of people, resulting in feelings of fatigue and difficulty breathing.

unstressed