What is a Finishing School?

I often see the words “Finishing School” labeling what in reality is just an etiquette program.  I suppose the consultants doing this believe that if their training has a lofty name associated with it, their business will be perceived as illustrious and their clients will have certain bragging rights.

I equate this to moms who now call what used to be a baby-sitter (or domestic help) their nanny.  Or the ladies who pretentiously announce that they are attending a High Tea, when in fact, it is a Low Tea or Afternoon Tea that they are going celebrate.

Webster’s Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary defines a finishing school as: “A private school for girls that emphasizes cultural studies and prepares students especially for social activities.”