Menin (title) facts for kids

A menin was a special helper to the Dauphin in old France. The Dauphin was the son of the King and the next in line to the throne. These helpers were young noblemen who stayed very close to the Dauphin.

The word "menin" comes from Portuguese. It means "boy" (menino) or "girl" (menina). In Portugal, it described young nobles who were companions to royal children. The word "menin" first came to France in 1680. This was when the household of the Grand Dauphin was being set up.

What Was a Menin?

A menin was one of six special gentlemen who served the Dauphin. They were very close to him. They were also called gentilshommes de la manche. This means "gentlemen of the sleeve." It showed how close they were to the Dauphin, almost like holding his sleeve.

Role of a Menin

The main job of a menin was to be a companion to the Dauphin. They would spend a lot of time with him. This role was important in the royal court. It helped the Dauphin learn about court life and duties.

Famous Menins

Many important people held the position of menin. During the time of the Ancien Régime (the old system of government in France), some famous menins included:

• The marquis de Dangeau
• The marquis de Mimeure
• The comte du Muy

Menins After the Monarchy Returned

After the Bourbon Restoration, many old court jobs came back. This was when the kings returned to power. The duc d'Angoulême also had menins. He became Dauphin when Charles X became king in 1824. One of his menins was the marquis d'Osmond.

See also

In Spanish: Menino (cargo) para niños