/tʃiːtʃiːˈziːbi/; Italian: [tʃitʃiˈziːbi]

Definitions

1. noun

A man who pretends to be a friend of a powerful woman, especially a noblewoman, in order to gain influence or other advantages, often by flattery or by pretending to share her interests.

“In 18th-century Italy, he was a notorious cicisbeo, trying to win the favor of a young noblewoman.”

2. noun

In some contexts, a cicisbeo refers to a male escort or attendant, especially one who accompanies a woman in public.

“The cicisbeo walked alongside her, ensuring her safety in the crowded streets.”