Dandy: meaning, definitions and examples
๐บ
dandy
[หdรฆndi ]
Definitions
fashion
A man who is excessively concerned about his clothes and appearance.
Synonyms
beau, cockscomb, fop, gallant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dandy |
Used to describe a man who is very concerned with his dress and appearance. The term can sometimes be used in a slightly negative or mocking way.
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| fop |
Describes a man overly concerned with his clothes and appearance, to the point of being silly or foolish. It has a negative connotation.
|
| cockscomb |
An archaic term, often used to describe a vain or conceited man. This term carries a strongly negative connotation.
|
| beau |
Typically refers to a woman's boyfriend or male admirer, especially one who is considered handsome or fashionable.
|
| gallant |
Describes a man who is brave and heroic, often in a romantic or chivalrous way. This term has a positive connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- He always dresses so impeccably, he's such a dandy.
- She admired the dandy in the sharp suit.
- I don't have time to be a dandy, I prefer comfort over style.
historical
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, a man unduly concerned with fashion, elegance, and fine manners.
Synonyms
fashion plate, macaroni.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dandy |
In another context, 'dandy' means something very good or excellent, usually in a colloquial or light-hearted way.
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| fashion plate |
This term is used to describe someone who is always up-to-date with the latest fashion trends and dresses stylishly. It's mostly positive and often implies admiration for one's fashion sense.
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| macaroni |
An older, historical term that was originally used in the 18th century to describe young men who adopted extravagant fashion and mannerisms influenced by continental Europe. It's rarely used today.
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Examples of usage
- The dandy was a prominent figure in Regency England.
- He prided himself on being a true dandy of the era.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'dandy' originated in the late 18th century and is believed to be derived from the Scottish word 'dandi,' meaning 'little'; it reflects a sense of refined style.
- It was popularized in London, often referring to men who dressed extravagantly and were conscious of their appearance.
- One of the earliest known dandies was Beau Brummell, who came to prominence in the Regency era and became a fashion icon.
Literature
- The character of the dandy appears in many literary works from the 19th century, symbolizing sophistication, often contrasted with more rugged or rustic characters.
- Writers like Oscar Wilde and Charles Dickens used the dandy archetype to comment on societal norms and the superficiality of the upper class.
- In 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' Wilde portrays Dorian as a modern dandy, obsessed with beauty and appearance.
Cultural Significance
- During the Victorian era, the dandy became synonymous with wit and elegance, often depicted in art and fashion that celebrated individuality.
- In modern culture, the term has evolved to describe anyone who has an eye for fashion, regardless of gender, showcasing a broader definition of style.
- The dandy often embodies the concept of aestheticism, where beauty and personal expression play a crucial role in one's identity.
Fashion
- Dandies are often recognized for specific fashion choices, such as tailored suits, waistcoats, and accessories that highlight their attention to detail.
- They typically embrace bold colors and patterns, standing out in a crowd, and setting trends that others may follow.
- Fashion designers have been inspired by the dandy aesthetic, creating collections that focus on flamboyant elegance and individual expression.
Psychology
- The dandy often represents a persona that contrasts with societal expectations, demonstrating confidence and the desire for self-expression through personal style.
- The relationship between appearance and identity in a dandy challenges traditional norms of masculinity by emphasizing beauty alongside strength.
- Studies suggest that the way individuals present themselves can significantly affect their social interactions and perceptions in various contexts.
Translations
Translations of the word "dandy" in other languages:
๐ต๐น dรขndi
๐ฎ๐ณ เคกเฅเคเคกเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Dandy
๐ฎ๐ฉ dandy
๐บ๐ฆ ะดะตะฝะดั
๐ต๐ฑ dandys
๐ฏ๐ต ใใณใใฃ
๐ซ๐ท dandy
๐ช๐ธ dandi
๐น๐ท dandy
๐ฐ๐ท ๋๋
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฃููู
๐จ๐ฟ dandy
๐ธ๐ฐ dandy
๐จ๐ณ ่ฑ่ฑๅ ฌๅญ
๐ธ๐ฎ dandy
๐ฎ๐ธ dandy
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะดะตะฝะดะธ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ dendi
๐ฒ๐ฝ dandi
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #21,743, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 21742 abstruse
- 21743 dandy
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