vainqueuse

Vainqueuse is a feminine noun in French that designates a female winner or conqueror in a contest, competition, or conflict. It is the feminine counterpart of vainqueur, which refers to a male winner. The term comes from the verb vaincre, “to defeat,” with the agent-noun suffix -euse, producing a word that emphasizes the act of defeating opponents and achieving victory.

Usage and examples: The phrase la vainqueuse du tournoi is common in sports reporting, as in “La vainqueuse du marathon a franchi la ligne en première.” The term can also describe a female winner in elections or other competitions, for instance “la vainqueuse des élections.”

Grammar and synonyms: The feminine form is une vainqueuse; the plural is des vainqueuses. Related terms include vainqueur (masculine), gagnante (feminine form of winner), and championne (female champion). In practice, vainqueuse is used whenever the winner is explicitly female; other terms may be chosen for nuance depending on context.

Context and notes: Vainqueuse is widely used in French-language media, sports reporting, literature, and journalism to denote a female victor. It is not typically used as a standalone title or proper noun unless it appears as part of a specific name or designation.