/bruydz"mayd'/ , n.
1. a young woman who attends the bride at a wedding ceremony.
2. Informal. a person, group, etc., that is in a secondary position, never quite attains a goal, etc.: Bridesmaids for 12 seasons, the Eagles finally won the championship.
[ 1545-55; BRIDE 1 + 'S 1 + MAID ]