monroe: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal when referring to historical/political concepts (e.g., Monroe Doctrine); informal/popular culture when referring to Marilyn Monroe or related styles.
Quick answer
What does “monroe” mean?
A proper noun primarily referring to a surname, most famously associated with Marilyn Monroe, the American actress and cultural icon.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun primarily referring to a surname, most famously associated with Marilyn Monroe, the American actress and cultural icon.
Can refer to various places, people, or concepts named after individuals with the surname Monroe, such as the Monroe Doctrine in U.S. foreign policy, towns and counties in the U.S., or as a given name. In fashion, it can refer to the 'Monroe piercing' (a lip piercing) or the 'Monroe look' (a style evoking Marilyn Monroe).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The political/historical term 'Monroe Doctrine' is used internationally but is most relevant in American contexts. The cultural reference to Marilyn Monroe is globally recognized, but the specific naming of places (e.g., Monroe, Louisiana) is predominantly American.
Connotations
In both varieties, 'Monroe' strongly connotes Marilyn Monroe. In the US, it has additional connotations of 19th-century presidential history (James Monroe) and domestic geography.
Frequency
Higher frequency in American English due to its use as a place name and historical reference. In British English, usage is almost exclusively tied to the cultural icon Marilyn Monroe or the Monroe Doctrine in academic/political discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “monroe” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] as subject/objectthe [Monroe Doctrine]a [Monroe piercing]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “monroe” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- She has a very Monroe-esque quality about her.
- The party had a Monroe theme.
American English
- That dress is totally Monroe.
- He has a Monroe-like charisma.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in branding (e.g., Monroe shock absorbers).
Academic
In historical/political science texts discussing the Monroe Doctrine or American studies discussing Marilyn Monroe as a cultural phenomenon.
Everyday
Almost exclusively in reference to Marilyn Monroe in discussions of film, fashion, or celebrity culture.
Technical
In body modification contexts for 'Monroe piercing'.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “monroe”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “monroe”
- Misspelling as 'Monrow' or 'Monro'.
- Using 'Monroe' as a common noun (e.g., 'She is a monroe').
- Incorrect capitalisation.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'Monroe' is exclusively a proper noun (a name for a specific person, place, or doctrine). It should always be capitalised.
Globally, the most famous reference is Marilyn Monroe, the American actress, model, and singer (1926-1962).
A US foreign policy principle from 1823, articulated by President James Monroe, opposing European colonialism in the Americas.
Informally, yes, often hyphenated as 'Monroe-esque' or 'Monroe-like' to describe something reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe's style or glamour.
A proper noun primarily referring to a surname, most famously associated with Marilyn Monroe, the American actress and cultural icon.
Monroe is usually formal when referring to historical/political concepts (e.g., monroe doctrine); informal/popular culture when referring to marilyn monroe or related styles. in register.
Monroe: in British English it is pronounced /mənˈrəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /mənˈroʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “'Doing a Monroe' (informal, rare: attempting a glamorous, breathy style)”
- “'A Monroe moment' (a glamorous or vulnerable public moment)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember Marilyn MONROE: MONday she was a star, but her life had a sad undertOE.
Conceptual Metaphor
GLAMOUR IS A MONROE; A POLITICAL PRINCIPLE IS A MONROE (metonymy where the name stands for the doctrine).
Practice
Quiz
What is the 'Monroe Doctrine' primarily associated with?