Du*en"na (?), n.; pl. Duennas (#). [Sp. duena, dona, fr. L. domina. See Dame.]
1.
The chief lady in waiting on the queen of Spain.
Brande.
2.
An elderly lady holding a station between a governess and companion, and appointed to have charge over the younger ladies in a Spanish or a Portuguese family.
Brande & C.
3.
Any old woman who is employed to guard a younger one; a governess.
Arbuthnot.
© Webster 1913.