Braid: meaning, definitions and examples

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braid

 

[breษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

hairstyle

A braid is a complex structure or pattern formed by intertwining three or more strands of hair.

Synonyms

plait, tress, twist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
braid

Used in everyday conversations to describe the intertwining of three or more strands of hair or thread into a pattern. Commonly used in both casual and professional settings.

  • She spent an hour braiding her daughter's hair for the school play.
  • The intricate braids in the bracelet were handmade.
plait

Often used in British English to describe the same action as 'braid'. It can also refer to the braiding of materials other than hair, such as straw or fabric.

  • She wore her hair in a single long plait down her back.
  • The old basket was made from plaited straw.
tress

More poetic or literary, this word usually refers to long locks or strands of hair. It often carries a connotation of beauty and elegance.

  • Her golden tresses shimmered in the sunlight.
  • The princess's tresses were adorned with jewels.
twist

Used to describe the action of turning or winding something around, but when it comes to hair, it usually involves two strands twisted together rather than three or more. It can also imply a sense of complexity or intricacy.

  • She quickly twisted her hair into a bun.
  • The wires were twisted together to form a complex pattern.

Examples of usage

  • She wore her hair in a long braid down her back.
  • The little girl had beautiful braids adorned with colorful ribbons.
Context #2 | Verb

hairstyling

To braid means to weave together strands of hair to create a pattern or structure.

Synonyms

interlace, plait, twist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
braid

Often used interchangeably with 'braid' in the context of hair, particularly in the US.

  • She weaved a beautiful braid in her friend's hair.
  • You can braid your hair to keep it tidy.
plait

Commonly used in British English when talking about a braid, especially with hair. Often refers to a simpler or more straightforward braid than 'braid'.

  • She asked her mother to plait her hair before school.
  • The girl wore her hair in a neat plait.
twist

Generally used to describe the action of turning something in a circular motion or intertwining two strands together. Can refer to hair, threads, or physical objects.

  • She decided to give her hair a twist for a different look.
  • He twisted the wires together to make them more secure.
interlace

Typically used when referring to the action of crossing two things over and under each other, often in a more intricate or detailed manner. Common in discussions of weaving, fingers, or complex designs.

  • She watched as the artisans interlace the threads to create a stunning tapestry.
  • He interlaced his fingers behind his head as he relaxed.

Examples of usage

  • She braided her hair before going to the party.
  • Can you braid my hair into a fishtail design?

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'bregdan', which means 'to move quickly' or 'to weave'.
  • In Middle English, 'braid' referred to the act of weaving hair or textile to create decorative patterns.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, intricate braiding styles signify social status or cultural identity.
  • Some Indigenous tribes use specific braid patterns to convey messages about a personโ€™s heritage or accomplishments.

Fashion and Art

  • Braids are not just for hair; they can also be used in fashion with belts, bags, and jewelry designs.
  • Artists have used techniques of braiding in sculpture and textile arts, showcasing the beauty of intertwining strands.

Psychology

  • Braiding can be a relaxing activity; it promotes mindfulness and focus, providing a soothing effect.
  • The process of braiding has been linked to fine motor skill development in children, helping them with coordination.

Literature

  • Braids often appear in fairy tales and folklore; characters with braided hair may symbolize beauty and wisdom.
  • In poetry, braids can symbolize connections between people or ideas, intertwining narratives and themes.

Translations

Translations of the word "braid" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น tranรงa

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคšเฅ‹เคŸเฅ€

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Zopf

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kepang

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะบะพัะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ warkocz

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ็ทจใฟ่พผใฟ (amikomi)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท tresse

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ trenza

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท รถrgรผ

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋•‹์€ ๋จธ๋ฆฌ (tta-eun meori)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุฌุฏูŠู„ุฉ (jadฤซla)

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ cop

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ vrkoฤ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ่พซๅญ (biร nzi)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ pletenica

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ flรฉtta

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ำฉั€ั–ะผ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒšแƒ”แƒœแƒขแƒ˜ (lenti)

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ toxunma

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ trenza

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,817, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.