Bedizen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💃
Add to dictionary

bedizen

[bɪˈdaɪ.zən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

dress up

To bedizen means to dress or adorn in a showy or gaudy manner. It usually implies a flamboyant or overly elaborate style, often lacking in taste. The term suggests an excessive emphasis on adornment that may detract from the natural appearance of the individual or object. Bedizening can be seen in fashion, where one may wear flashy clothing or accessories that stand out dramatically.

Synonyms

adorn, decorate, dress up, embellish.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to bedizen herself with sparkling jewelry for the gala.
  • The costumes were heavily bedizened, showcasing bright colors and extravagant designs.
  • He loves to bedizen his bicycle with colorful streamers and lights.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Bedizen often implies an exaggerated style, used to describe outfits that are overly fancy or ostentatious.
  • In modern fashion, 'bedizened' looks can be seen in runway shows where models wear bold, eclectic combinations.
  • Historically, certain social gatherings required guests to bedizen themselves to display wealth and sophistication.

Literature

  • The term has appeared in literary works to satirize characters who over-emphasize their appearance at the expense of substance.
  • Notable authors such as Charles Dickens and John Bunyan have used the term to describe characters' excessive ornamentation.
  • In poetry, the process of bedizening can symbolize superficiality, contrasting inner beauty with outer appearances.

Cultural Trends

  • During the 19th century, bedizening was associated with the rise of fashion magazines that encouraged flamboyant dressing.
  • Certain subcultures, like punk and goth, have embraced bedizened style as a way to express individuality and draw attention.
  • The concept of bedizening goes beyond clothing to include accessories and hairstyles, creating an overall striking appearance.

Psychology

  • People may bedizen themselves to gain confidence or to influence how others perceive them in social settings.
  • Research shows that flashy clothing can enhance the wearer's mood, creating a positive feedback loop of self-expression.
  • Cultural norms often dictate what is considered 'bedizened' or appropriate for various social contexts, influencing choices significantly.

Origin of 'bedizen'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bedizen' comes from the Middle English 'bedizen', meaning to dress or adorn, showing its roots in fashion and style.
  • It is believed to have originated from the word 'dizzen', which means to dress or to become decorated.
  • The transition to current usage occurred in the late 16th century, highlighting a trend in elaborate dress among the wealthy.

The word 'bedizen' originates from the early 17th century, derived from the combination of the prefix 'be-' and the word 'dizen', which comes from an Old French term 'desiner', meaning 'to design' or 'to set in order'. The prefix 'be-' is used to indicate a state or condition. Initially, it retained a neutral sense of embellishing or decorating, but over time it acquired a connotation of ostentation or excessive ornamentation. The term has often been used in literature to criticize or mock the overly extravagant styles of dress, reinforcing a cultural perception that favors understated elegance over flamboyant displays. The use of 'bedizen' continues in modern English, particularly in discussions about fashion and personal presentation.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,528, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.