"Donzella"

[TerraLavoro]

I've seen this term for a very young (15 1/2 years old) bride in a civil marriage record from 1817.

Am I correct that it means "damsel" i.e. very young woman, or is their another implication in this word? I guess I am asking the native Italian speakers to weigh in. Thanks in advance.

[cedrone]

Yes, it is an old word, now usually not used.
Main meaning is: an unmarried young woman;
According to dictionaries, other meanings were:
-- little girl
-- young married woman
-- maid (bridesmaid) of a noble woman.

[TerraLavoro]

Thanks cedrone.