Crimp: meaning, definitions and examples

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crimp

 

[ krɪmp ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

to press together

To crimp means to press or pinch together, often to create a fold or to secure something. This action is commonly used in cooking, particularly in making pies or pastries where the edges are crimped to seal in the filling. It can also refer to manipulating materials like metal or hair, where creating a wave or texture is desired. The term can denote both a practical and decorative technique.

Synonyms

fold, pinch, press

Examples of usage

  • She crimped the edges of the pie crust to make it look pretty.
  • He crimped the wiring to ensure a tight connection.
  • The stylist crimped her hair for a retro look.
Context #2 | Noun

a wave or fold

A crimp refers to a small wave, fold, or pleat in a material. In textiles and hair styling, crimping creates patterns or textures that add visual interest. The term is frequently used in crafting and design, where a crimp can enhance the aesthetics of the finished product. It can also describe a specific aesthetic style, particularly in fashion.

Synonyms

fold, pleat, wave

Examples of usage

  • The dress had beautiful crimps along the hem.
  • Her hair had lovely crimps that added character.
  • Crimps in the fabric gave it a unique design.

Translations

Translations of the word "crimp" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ondular

🇮🇳 क्रिम्प करना

🇩🇪 kräuseln

🇮🇩 menggulung

🇺🇦 згинати

🇵🇱 zagnieść

🇯🇵 クランプする

🇫🇷 froncer

🇪🇸 fruncir

🇹🇷 büzmek

🇰🇷 주름지게 하다

🇸🇦 تجعيد

🇨🇿 zvlnit

🇸🇰 zvlnit

🇨🇳 压褶

🇸🇮 nagubati

🇮🇸 krulla

🇰🇿 бүрілу

🇬🇪 მრუდი

🇦🇿 bükmək

🇲🇽 fruncir

Etymology

The word 'crimp' originates from Middle English 'crympen', which is believed to have derived from the Old English 'crympan', meaning 'to bend or curl.' This term can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic '*krumpōną', which carries a similar meaning. The usage of 'crimp' in English dates back to the late 16th century, initially used to describe a curling or bending action. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the pressing or pinching of materials. As a result, 'crimp' has established itself in various contexts, such as cooking, hair styling, and textiles, demonstrating its versatility and adaptation within the language. In modern usage, 'crimp' encompasses a range of actions that involve shaping or manipulating materials to achieve a desired outcome.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,734, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.