'Governess' definitions:

Definition of 'governess'

From: WordNet
noun
A woman entrusted with the care and supervision of a child (especially in a private home)

Definition of 'Governess'

From: GCIDE
  • Governess \Gov"ern*ess\, n. [Cf. OF. governeresse. See Governor.] A female governor; a woman invested with authority to control and direct; especially, one intrusted with the care and instruction of children, -- usually in their homes. [1913 Webster]