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Bra Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘™
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bra

[brษ’ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

women's clothing

A bra, short for brassiere, is a women's undergarment designed to support and cover the breasts. Bras come in various styles and sizes, often featuring adjustable straps and different levels of padding. They are commonly worn under clothing and play a significant role in providing comfort and shape to the breasts. The design and purpose of bras have evolved over the years, with modern options catering to both functionality and aesthetics.

Synonyms

brassiere, bustier, undergarment.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to wear a comfortable sports bra for her workout.
  • Bridal bras are designed to be invisible under wedding dresses.
  • Many women prefer wireless bras for everyday wear.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion and Culture

  • In the 1960s, women began burning bras as a protest against traditional norms, representing a fight for gender equality.
  • Different cultures have unique styles of support garments, from the traditional 'kลnkyล' in Japan to various forms of corsetry in Europe.

Health and Science

  • Studies show that the right type of bra can significantly affect comfort and posture.
  • Some research suggests that too tight a bra could hinder lymphatic flow, yet more studies are needed.

Pop Culture

  • Bras have appeared in numerous music videos, symbolizing femininity and empowerment, such as in Beyoncรฉ's 'Bootylicious'.
  • Famous designs, like the Victoria's Secret Fantasy Bra, often make headlines for their lavish materials and celebrity endorsements.

History

  • In ancient Greece, women used simple garments made of fabric to provide breast support and coverage.
  • The modern strap system was patented in the early 20th century, revolutionizing women's lingerie.

Origin of 'bra'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bra' is short for 'brassiere', which comes from the French word meaning 'upper arm' or 'support'.
  • Brassieres were first made in the 19th century, but the modern version became popular in the early 20th century.

The term 'bra' is a shortened form of 'brassiรจre,' which originated in French. The word 'brassiรจre' means 'upper arm,' which refers to the garment's design that supports and shapes the breasts. The concept of supportive undergarments dates back to ancient times, with examples of similar garments found in various cultures, from corsets in the Victorian era to more modern, less restrictive designs. In the early 20th century, the modern bra as we know it began to take shape, popularized by advancements in textile technology and changes in women's fashion. The bra became a staple in women's wardrobes, reflecting both societal shifts and evolving views on femininity and comfort.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,873, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.