virginal Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a legless rectangular harpsichord; played (usually by women) in the 16th and 17th centuries
pair of virginals.
adjective characteristic of a virgin or virginity
- virginal white dresses
adjective satellite untouched or undefiled
- nor is there anything more virginal than the shimmer of young foliage"- L.P.Smith
adjective satellite in a state of sexual virginity
virgin; vestal; pure; virtuous.
- pure and vestal modesty
- a spinster or virgin lady
- men have decreed that their women must be pure and virginal

L. virginalis: cf. F. virginal.

Of or pertaining to a virgin; becoming a virgin; maidenly. "Chastity and honor virginal." Spenser.

Cf. F. virginale; -- probably so called from being used by young girls, or virgins.

(Mus.) An instrument somewhat resembling the spinet, but having a rectangular form, like the small piano. It had strings and keys, but only one wire to a note. The instrument was used in the sixteenth century, but is now wholly obsolete. It was sometimes called a pair of virginals.

To play with the fingers, as if on a virginal; to tap or pat. Obs. "Still virginaling upon his palm!" Shak.