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Cobbler Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cobbler

[ˈkɒblər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

shoe repair

A cobbler is a person who repairs shoes, especially leather shoes. Cobblers often work in small shops and use specialized tools to fix worn-out soles, heels, and other parts of shoes.

Synonyms

repairman, shoemaker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cobbler

Mainly used in British English to refer to someone who mends shoes. In some places, it can also mean someone who makes and repairs shoes.

  • The cobbler fixed the broken heel on my favorite boots.
  • I always go to the local cobbler when my shoes need mending.

Examples of usage

  • The cobbler did a fantastic job fixing the hole in my favorite pair of boots.
  • I need to take my dress shoes to the cobbler to get them resoled.
Context #2 | Noun

dessert

In British English, a cobbler is a dessert made with fruit filling, such as berries or peaches, topped with a biscuit dough or cake batter. The dessert is baked until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.

Synonyms

fruit crisp, fruit crumble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cobbler

In British English, 'cobbler' refers to a person who repairs shoes. Though not used often in this context in everyday conversation, it still appears in literary texts and formal contexts.

  • He took his old boots to the cobbler for repairs.
  • The village cobbler was known for his excellent craftsmanship.
fruit crumble

This term is more commonly used in British English and refers to a dessert similar to a 'fruit crisp' but typically the topping is more crumbly and may not include oats. Popular in home cooking, it's often enjoyed with custard or cream.

  • Her specialty is a blackberry crumble with a hint of cinnamon.
  • We loved the rhubarb crumble she made for dessert.
fruit crisp

Commonly used in North American English, especially in the United States and Canada, to describe a dessert with fruit at the bottom and a crispy, crumbly topping made of sugar, butter, and flour, often with oats or nuts. It's ideal for potlucks and family gatherings.

  • She brought an apple crisp to the picnic.
  • For Thanksgiving, they always make a cranberry-apple crisp.

Examples of usage

  • My grandma makes the best peach cobbler I've ever tasted.
  • We ordered a mixed berry cobbler for dessert at the restaurant.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Cobblers were essential tradespeople in medieval towns, often being among the first to adopt new techniques in shoe manufacturing.
  • In early America, cobblers played a vital role in communities by personally fitting footwear, often making a family's shoes from scratch.
  • A cobbler's workshop was often a social hub where people gathered to share news while waiting for their repairs.

Cultural References

  • In literature, cobblers appear in fables as clever problem-solvers, showcasing their importance in society.
  • There is a well-known fairy tale, 'The Elves and the Shoemaker,' highlighting the magical assistance cobblers receive in crafting shoes.
  • In some cultures, 'cobbler' can also refer to a type of fruit dessert, showing the word's versatile use in language.

Trade and Craft

  • Modern cobblers still use time-honored techniques while incorporating new materials and machinery to adapt to current trends.
  • The craft of shoemaking is now considered an art, with artisan cobblers creating custom designs for clientele.
  • Shoe repair is becoming increasingly rare as fast fashion leads to the disposal of shoes instead of repair, raising concerns about sustainability.

Psychology

  • Working as a cobbler requires attention to detail and precision, fostering skills that contribute to mental well-being.
  • The act of creating or fixing items can provide a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment, positively impacting a cobbler's mental health.
  • Engaging in hands-on craft like cobbling has been shown to reduce stress and enhance mood due to the focus and creativity it demands.

Origin of 'cobbler'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old French term 'cobler' which means to mend or patch.
  • In English, it was first recorded in the late 15th century, primarily referring to those who made or repaired shoes.
  • The term has evolved to include not just shoe repair but also refers to traditional fruit desserts in some cultures.

The word 'cobbler' has a long history and can be traced back to the 14th century. Originally, it referred to a mender of shoes, derived from the Old French word 'cobleur'. Over time, the term also came to be used for a simple fruit dessert, likely due to the way the topping looks like cobblestones. Today, 'cobbler' is used in both contexts, referring to both a shoe repair person and a delicious dessert.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,408, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.