Etymology

Origin unknown. The suggests an Old English } < (diminutive of }) < . In that case, one cognate is Low German , (or these words could have been borrowed into English). Another possibility (after Robinson 1967) is Old English .

Noun

1. A young female (in contrast to boy), usually a child or adolescent.

   Amanda is a girl of 16.

2. Any woman, regardless of her age. See usage notes.
3. A female servant; a maid. See usage notes.
4. A boy with girl-like qualities, especially squeamishness.

   Stop being such a girl and punch back.

5. A queen (the playing card.)
6. A term of endearment. See usage notes.
7. a girlfriend.

   I'm going to meet my girl over there.

8. a daughter.

   Your girl turned up on our doorstep.

Usage notes

Calling a grown woman a "girl" may be considered either a compliment or an insult, depending on context and sensibilities. In some cases, the term is used as a euphemism for virgin, to distinguish a female who has never engaged in sexual intercourse whereas a woman is one who has done so.