Woman of the Bedchamber

A woman of the bedchamber is a member of the Royal Household of the United Kingdom attending a queen regnant or queen consort in the role of lady-in-waiting. Historically the term 'Gentlewoman of Her Majesty's Bedchamber' was sometimes used. In addition to the women of the bedchamber (usually daughters of peers), queens have ladies of the bedchamber (typically wives or widows of peers above the rank of earl), and a mistress of the robes (usually a duchess) who is the senior female member of her household. The women of the bedchamber are usually in regular attendance, but the mistress of the robes and the ladies of the bedchamber are normally only required for major events and occasions.