bemelmans: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowFormal/Literary
Quick answer
What does “bemelmans” mean?
A proper noun, specifically a surname, most famously associated with the Austrian-American writer and illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans, creator of the Madeline children's book series.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun, specifically a surname, most famously associated with the Austrian-American writer and illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans, creator of the Madeline children's book series.
It can be used metonymically to refer to his distinctive artistic or literary style — charming, whimsical, Parisian-themed illustrations and narratives. May also refer to establishments (e.g., bars, restaurants) named after him.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Awareness may be slightly higher in the US due to the author's residence and the popularity of the Madeline series there.
Connotations
Connotes childhood literature, classic illustration, a certain European (Parisian) charm.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties, appearing primarily in biographical, literary, or cultural discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “bemelmans” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] (subject) + verbthe + [Bemelmans] + noun (e.g., the Bemelmans Bar)adjective + [Bemelmans] + noun (e.g., classic Bemelmans art)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bemelmans” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- The mural had a distinctly Bemelmans feel to it.
- She collects vintage books with Bemelmans illustrations.
American English
- The bar's decor is very Bemelmans, with its playful murals.
- It's a Bemelmans-style drawing of Paris.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Potentially in branding/marketing for hospitality or publishing.
Academic
Used in literary criticism, children's literature studies, art history.
Everyday
Very rare. Used by enthusiasts of children's literature or illustration.
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bemelmans”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bemelmans”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bemelmans”
- Misspelling (e.g., 'Bemelman', 'Bemelmen').
- Using it uncapitalised.
- Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'a bemelmans painting' – should be 'a Bemelmans painting').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency proper noun, known primarily to those familiar with children's literature and illustration.
Yes, attributively (e.g., 'a Bemelmans illustration'). It describes something in the style or created by Ludwig Bemelmans.
It is pronounced /ˈbɛməlmənz/ (BEM-uhl-mənz), with stress on the first syllable.
Though Austrian-born, Ludwig Bemelmans became a naturalised US citizen. His 'Madeline' series, published in the US, became a classic of American children's literature, and the Bemelmans Bar in New York City is a cultural landmark.
A proper noun, specifically a surname, most famously associated with the Austrian-American writer and illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans, creator of the Madeline children's book series.
Bemelmans is usually formal/literary in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No established idioms]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
BEMELMANS: BEautiful MELodies and MANSions – think of the charming, musical rhythm of the Madeline books and the Parisian settings.
Conceptual Metaphor
BEMELMANS IS A STYLE OF WHIMSICAL CHARM (The hotel's decor was pure Bemelmans, all playful murals and nostalgic elegance).
Practice
Quiz
What is 'Bemelmans' primarily known as?