What is a dandy?
Q: What is a dandy?
A: A dandy is a man who dresses elegantly and fashionably, but that was not necessarily of aristocratic origin. He exaggerates his manners, including the way he stands and moves, and the way he speaks. This is called dandyism.
Q: Where does the word 'Dandy' come from?
A: The word 'Dandy' was originally a version of 'Andrew'.
Q: Who were some famous 18th and 19th century Dandies?
A: Some famous 18th and 19th century Dandies were Beau Brummell from the Regency period of George IVth, Lord Byron, Oscar Wilde, James McNeill Whistler, Maurice Ravel and The Scarlet Pimpernel from literature.
Q: Is there an equivalent female term for dandy?
A: Yes, the female equivalent is a dandizette.
Q: Are all Dandies aristocrats?
A: No, not all Dandies are aristocrats; they can be men from middle-class backgrounds trying to become people from high society.
Q: How has the meaning of "dandy" changed over time?
A: In modern times in the 21st century, the word "dandy" is often used as a joke word to mean "fine" or "great".
