maiding

English

Etymology

Blend of maiden +‎ -ing, through misapprehension of maiden as a case of g-dropping.

Noun

maiding (plural maidings)

1. (obsolete) A young woman; representing a mispronunciation of the word "maiden".
   • 1887 February 25, The Alexandra and Yea Standard, Gobur, Thornton and Acheron Express, Victoria, page 2, column 7:

     At this season o' the year valentines is exceedin prolific, and the arrival of the postman is eagerly watched for by many a maiding o' tender years.

   • 1900 January 26, The Albury Banner and Wodonga Express, page 22, column 4:

     How in the town of Coventree, a young chap he was fined, for kissing a maiding when she didn't feel inclined.

   • 1918, Norman Lindsay, The Magic Pudding, page 84:

     When on the quarter-deck was seen / A maiding fit to be a Queen[.]