Wooer

A wooer is a noun that denotes a person who woos another person, especially in the sense of courting or seeking to win affection or marriage. A wooer engages in acts of courtship, such as demonstrating interest, proposing plans for time together, and seeking the other person’s consent or favor. The term implies a relatively formal, intentional approach to romance and is often found in historical, literary, or humorous contexts. In modern everyday language, terms like suitor or admirer are more common, while "wooer" can carry a slightly archaic or playful tone.

Etymology: The word is formed by adding the agent suffix -er to the verb "to woo," which itself means to seek the favor or hand of someone through courtship. While historically there were typically male wooers, the role can be filled by any gender.

Usage notes: "Wooer" is most often used to describe the person initiating a courtship rather than the lover or beloved. It can appear in fiction, poetry, or rhetorical narration when the narrator aims to evoke a sense of old-fashioned romance or social ritual.

Examples: "The persistent wooer sought a meeting with her family." "In the ballad, the wooer pled his case beneath her balcony." See also: suitor, courtship, romance.