subs. phr. (venery).—The maiden-head, virginity, chastity. [In allusion to the girdle worn by Greek and Roman maidens when of marriageable age.]

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  1609.  SHAKESPEARE, Tempest, iv. 1.

                    Take my daughter; but
If thou dost break her VIRGIN-KNOT before
All sanctimonious ceremonies may
With full and holy rite be minister’d.

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