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Disrobe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disrobe

[dɪsˈrəʊb ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

formal

To remove one's clothing, especially in a formal or deliberate manner.

Synonyms

strip, unclothe, undress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disrobe

Often used in formal or medical situations when someone is taking off their clothes for a specific reason or procedure.

  • The patient was asked to disrobe for the examination
undress

Commonly used in everyday language when someone is taking off their clothes, often in preparation for bed or changing into something else.

  • Please undress and put on this hospital gown
  • She undressed and put on her pajamas
strip

Generally used when someone is taking off their clothes entirely, sometimes quickly or in an exaggerated manner. It can have a negative connotation if referring to removing clothes in public or in performance contexts.

  • The children stripped off their wet clothes after playing in the rain
  • The performer stripped on stage as part of the act
unclothe

A more old-fashioned or literary term rarely used in everyday conversation.

  • In the story, the heroine unclothed herself by the river

Examples of usage

  • He disrobed before entering the hot tub.
  • The performer disrobed on stage as part of the act.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, disrobing occurs during significant life events like weddings or traditional ceremonies, symbolizing a new beginning.
  • In the performing arts, disrobing is often a dramatic act used to convey vulnerability or transformation.
  • Some cultures have designated ceremonies where individuals disrobe as a form of purification or spiritual cleansing.

Psychology

  • Disrobing can have psychological implications, such as feelings of exposure, vulnerability, or liberation.
  • Studies have shown that the act of changing clothes can impact one's mental state, influencing mood and confidence.
  • The context in which disrobing occurs, such as alone or in front of others, can significantly affect how a person feels.

Fashion and Society

  • Fashion history shows that disrobing has been a way to signify status – in some eras, elaborate clothing was shed to reveal undergarments that indicated wealth.
  • In modern fashion, disrobing can be an artistic expression, as seen in runway shows or performances that challenge societal norms regarding nudity and body image.
  • The rise of athleisure fashion has made disrobing more casual, as people transition between formal and relaxed clothing throughout the day.

Literature

  • Disrobing is often used in poetry and prose to signify a deeper emotional or psychological revelation of a character.
  • In classic literature, characters who disrobe may symbolize conflict, innocence, or the shedding of societal expectations.
  • Modern novels sometimes explore the theme of disrobing as a metaphor for revealing one's true self or confronting hidden fears.

Origin of 'disrobe'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin roots where 'dis-' means 'away' and 'roba' means 'clothes'.
  • It first appeared in English in the 14th century, evolving from older terms related to removing clothing.
  • In some historical texts, the action of disrobing is associated with rituals or preparation for specific events.

The word 'disrobe' originated from the combination of the prefix 'dis-' (indicating reversal) and the word 'robe' (meaning clothing). It first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century.

See also: enrobe, robe, robed, unrobe.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,477, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.