Briefs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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briefs

[briหfs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

underwear

Briefs are a type of underwear that are tight-fitting and have a short leg and no sleeves. They are typically worn by men and boys.

Synonyms

underpants, underwear, undies.

Examples of usage

  • He wore a pair of white briefs under his pants.
  • She prefers briefs over boxers for everyday wear.
Context #2 | Noun

legal document

Briefs can also refer to a written legal document that presents arguments in a case before a court.

Synonyms

legal brief, legal document, memorandum.

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer submitted a brief outlining the key points of the case.
  • The court requested briefs from both parties before the hearing.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'brief' comes from the Old French 'brief', which means short, and its use in clothing can be traced back to the 19th century.
  • Briefs became popular in the 1930s as swimwear and later transformed into everyday underwear.
  • In the 1950s, a famous advertisement claimed that briefs offered men more support and style, leading to a surge in their popularity.

Fashion

  • Briefs are designed to provide more coverage and support than other underwear styles, like boxers.
  • They come in various fabrics like cotton, modal, and spandex, catering to comfort and style preferences.
  • Different styles of briefs exist, such as bikini briefs and high-cut briefs, allowing consumers to choose based on comfort and aesthetic.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, the choice of underwear can symbolize social status, with luxury brands making headlines in the fashion world.
  • Briefs have been referenced in literature and popular media, often used to convey themes of intimacy or personal expression.
  • Celebrities have influenced trends in men's and women's underwear, making briefs a notable part of modern fashion culture.

Health and Psychology

  • Choosing the right underwear type can impact comfort and confidence, influencing overall mental well-being.
  • Research suggests that men may prefer briefs over boxers because they feel more secure and supported.
  • Comfortable underwear can affect posture and comfort throughout the day, directly impacting daily routines.

Sports and Functionality

  • Athletes often prefer briefs for their ability to stay snug and provide support during physical activities.
  • Sports briefs are designed with moisture-wicking fabrics, which help maintain comfort during intense workouts.
  • Specific brands create performance briefs that are engineered to improve airflow and reduce friction.

Origin of 'briefs'

The word 'briefs' originated from the Old French word 'brief', which meant 'short'. It first appeared in the English language in the 16th century. Over time, the term 'briefs' evolved to refer to both a type of underwear and a legal document, reflecting its dual meaning in modern usage.


See also: brevity, brief, briefcase, briefly, briefness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,414, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.