1. the act or practice of accompanying and supervising a young unmarried woman in public to ensure propriety and protect her reputation
Usage: historical; most common in 19th and early 20th century social contexts
2. the role or responsibility of a chaperone; the supervision of young people at social events

Examples

• In Victorian society, chaperonage was essential for unmarried women attending balls and social gatherings.
• The strict rules of chaperonage meant that young couples could rarely be alone together.
• Modern schools still employ chaperonage at school dances and field trips, though the practice is less formal than in the past.
• Her mother's chaperonage of the outing ensured that propriety was maintained throughout the day.
• The decline of chaperonage reflected changing attitudes toward women's independence and social freedom.
• Chaperonage served as a social institution designed to protect family honor and reputation.