Clothe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clothe

[klษ™สŠรฐ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

put on clothes

To dress oneself or someone else in garments. This action is done in order to cover the body, protect it from the elements, or conform to social norms. Clothing can include various items such as shirts, pants, dresses, and accessories.

Synonyms

array, attire, dress, garb.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to clothe himself in a suit for the job interview.
  • She clothed her children warmly before they went outside to play.
Context #2 | Noun

items worn on the body

Clothing collectively refers to garments or attire worn on the body. It serves as a form of protection, modesty, and self-expression. Clothing can vary in style, material, and purpose, ranging from casual wear to formal attire.

Synonyms

apparel, attire, garments, raiment.

Examples of usage

  • She always wears stylish clothes to work.
  • He donated bags full of clothes to the charity.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Different cultures have unique clothing styles that reflect their traditions and identities.
  • Clothing can signify social status, profession, or regional heritage, influencing how people perceive one another.

Historical Usage

  • In ancient times, clothing was often made from animal hides and natural materials like plant fibers.
  • The introduction of weaving technologies transformed how fabrics were made and revolutionized clothing styles.

Fashion Evolution

  • The concept of fashion as we know it began in the late Middle Ages when garments started to signify wealth and status.
  • Today's fashion trends often recycle past styles, showcasing how clothing evolves yet remains connected to history.

Psychology

  • The clothes we wear can influence our mood and confidence levels, a phenomenon known as 'enclothed cognition'.
  • Dressing for the occasion can impact how we interact with others and influence their perceptions of us.

Origin of 'clothe'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'clyรฐan', which means 'to cover' or 'to clothe'.
  • It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word '*klewล', reflecting a long history of dressing and covering oneself.

The word 'clothe' originated from the Old English word 'clฤthian', which meant 'to clothe, dress, or attire'. The term has evolved over centuries to its current usage in modern English. Clothing has been a fundamental aspect of human civilization, serving practical, social, and cultural purposes throughout history.


See also: cloth, clothes, clothing, cloths.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,944, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.