paranymph Meaning, Definition & Usage

Par"a*nymph noun
Etymology
L. paranymphus, Gr. beside, near + a bride: cf. F. paranymphe.
Definitions
  1. (Gr. Antiq.) (a) A friend of the bridegroom who went with him in his chariot to fetch home the bride. Milton. (b) The bridesmaid who conducted the bride to the bridegroom.
  2. Hence: An ally; a supporter or abettor. Jer. Taylor.

Webster 1913