Cravat - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

formal attire

A cravat is a neckband, the forerunner of the modern tailored necktie and bow tie, originating in 17th-century military unit Croatia.

Synonyms

ascot, necktie, tie.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cravat	A cravat is a wide piece of fabric worn around the neck and tucked inside an open-necked shirt. It is often associated with historical or formal attire. He looked dashing in his vintage suit and cravat. The portrait featured a gentleman dressed in a cravat.
necktie	A necktie is a long piece of cloth worn around the neck, usually under a shirt collar and knotted at the throat. It is the most common formal or business neckwear. He put on a necktie for the job interview. The school uniform includes a blazer and a necktie.
ascot	An ascot is a type of neckwear, usually worn at formal day events. It is often more decorative and associated with traditional British fashion. He wore an elegant ascot to the horse races. At the wedding, he paired his morning suit with a silk ascot.
tie	Tie is a more casual term for necktie, used in most everyday situations. It can be worn in various settings from business to semi-formal occasions. He loosened his tie after a long day at work. For the meeting, he chose a dark blue tie.

Examples of usage

He wore a silk cravat with his tuxedo.
The gentleman tied his cravat in a perfect Windsor knot.

Interesting Facts

Fashion History

During the 18th century, cravats became a symbol of sophistication among European aristocrats, marking a person's social status.
The transition from cravats to modern neckties occurred in the 19th century, leading to more standardized and simplified designs.
Different styles of cravats and neckwear indicate variations in fashion trends across different historical periods and regions.

Cultural Significance

In the 19th century, cravats were commonly worn by men in Western cultures, with various tying techniques representing different social classes.
Cravats have been depicted in numerous artworks and portraits, often associated with dignity, elegance, and high society.
The accentuated use of cravats in literature can be traced back to many notable characters, often portraying them as civilized and refined.

Modern Usage

Today, cravats are less common but are still worn for formal occasions, making a fashionable statement in modern attire.
At events like weddings and formal dinners, cravats can add a unique touch to one’s outfit, differentiating it from standard ties.
Fashion designers often experiment with cravat styles, demonstrating that they still hold a place in contemporary fashion.

Origin of 'cravat'

Main points about word origin

The word 'cravat' comes from the French term for Croatian soldiers, known as 'Cravates', who wore similar neckwear in the 17th century.
In the 1600s, Croatian mercenaries introduced this style to France, influencing the fashion trends of the time.
Originally, a cravat was a simple length of fabric, but it evolved into more elaborate styles over the centuries.

The word 'cravat' originates from the term 'Croat', due to the Croatian mercenaries who wore a cloth tied around their necks. This fashion accessory gained popularity in the 17th century among the upper class in Europe and later evolved into the modern necktie and bow tie.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,854, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
25851 intricacy
25852 abrasions
25853 marvelously
25854 cravat
25855 unevenness
25856 cranked
25857 swifter
...

Cravat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations