Gorgeous

The other day at pick-up time, Coop introduced me to the student teacher who is working in his class this term.  She told me that Coop was the first student whose name she knew in the school (imagine that!) because he is so "gorgeous." I said, "Thank you," and walked away feeling proud, but confused. What exactly did she mean by "gorgeous?"  People here seem to use that word the way we use the word "awesome" back home.  It is used in so many different contexts that, at times, I have trouble deciphering the exact meaning each time it is used. You might hear someone say, "She is gorgeous." or "That is a gorgeous sunset."  Another time, you might hear someone say, "We had a gorgeous time." or "That was gorgeous party."  Did Coop's teacher mean he is really good looking or that he is an enjoyable person?  I am not sure. As his mom, I am, of course, hoping she meant both, but as an American, I am baffled by this word.

So I came home and decided to look it up in the dictionary.  I thought maybe there was a secret meaning of the word that we Americans just don't know.  Here is what the dictionary says:

gorgeous

 

1.

splendid or sumptuous in appearance, coloring, etc.;magnificent: a gorgeous gown; a gorgeous sunset.

2.

Informal . extremely good, enjoyable, or pleasant: I had a gorgeous time.

So, I still am not exactly sure what she meant by the word "gorgeous" in regards to Coop, but since all the  possible meanings are positive, I will just simply enjoy the compliment and enjoy my gorgeous boy.