What is damsel?

A damsel refers to a young woman who is perceived as delicate, refined, and charming. The term was commonly used in medieval times to describe a young, unmarried woman of noble birth. In more modern times, it may be used to describe a woman who is beautiful, dainty, and in need of protection. It is often associated with the literary trope of the "damsel in distress," where a female character is kidnapped, captured, or threatened, and needs a hero to come to her rescue. The term today may also be used ironically or sarcastically to criticize traditional gender roles or to question the need for women to be protected or rescued.