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Dirndl Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dirndl

[ˈdɪrn.dəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

traditional dress

A dirndl is a traditional dress worn in Germany and Austria, often associated with Alpine culture. It typically consists of a blouse, a fitted bodice, and a full skirt, often worn with an apron. The dirndl is commonly seen during festivals and cultural events.

Synonyms

Alpine dress, traditional dress.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautiful dirndl to the Oktoberfest.
  • The dirndl is a popular outfit for country fairs.
  • Many women choose to wear a dirndl for traditional weddings.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Dirndls are closely associated with Oktoberfest, where many attendees wear them to celebrate Bavarian culture.
  • Different regions in Bavaria have unique styles and colors of dirndls, reflecting local traditions and customs.

Fashion History

  • The style became widely recognized in the mid-19th century when it transitioned from country wear to a fashion statement.
  • High-waisted dirndls made a comeback in the 1950s and 60s, influencing modern designs, including variations seen in contemporary fashion.

Modern Pop Culture

  • Dirndls have made appearances in films, such as 'The Sound of Music', promoting the charm of traditional Alpine attire.
  • Celebrities and influencers often wear dirndls at festivals, endorsing the dress as both a cultural symbol and a fashion choice.

Craftsmanship

  • Authentic dirndls are often handmade, with detailed embroidery and hand-sewn patterns that can take hours to create.
  • The choice of fabric can vary widely; traditional ones often use cotton, while modern takes might incorporate silks or complex blends.

Origin of 'dirndl'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'dirndl' comes from the German dialect 'dirn' which means 'girl' or 'maiden'.
  • Originally, it referred to the dress worn by a servant girl in Bavaria before evolving into a popular folk fashion.

The term 'dirndl' originates from the Bavarian and Austrian German dialect, where it initially referred to a young girl or 'girl' in general. Over time, the meaning evolved to denote a specific type of women's dress that was popular among rural culture in the Alpine regions of Germany and Austria. As a result, it became strongly associated with the folk traditions of these areas. The design and concept of dirndls were influenced by the clothes worn by working-class women in the 19th century, which were colorful and practical for daily wear. The dirndl has been embraced as a symbol of regional pride and culture, particularly during Oktoberfest and other cultural celebrations, making it a beloved garment in German-speaking areas.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,448, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.