Dolling - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

dressing up

Dolling refers to the action of dressing up or decorating oneself in a showy or elaborate manner. It is often associated with enhancing one's appearance, typically by wearing stylish or extravagant clothing and accessories. The term can also suggest the idea of putting on a facade or adopting a more glamorous version of oneself. While it can be used in a lighthearted or playful context, it may sometimes imply a desire for attention or validation.

Synonyms

adorn, dressing, embellish.

Examples of usage

She enjoys dolling up for parties.
They spent hours dolling themselves before the event.
He was dolling himself up for the gala.
The children were dolling their dolls with new outfits.

Interesting Facts

Fashion

In fashion, 'dolling up' can refer to the process of applying makeup and styling clothing before a big event.
The concept of dolling can also be connected to historical periods where elaborate clothing defined social status.

Cultural References

In pop culture, the idea of ‘dolling up’ is common in beauty contests and runway shows, where participants enhance their appearance.
Television shows often depict characters 'dolling up' before a night out, highlighting social rituals around beauty and fashion.

Psychology

Psychologically, enhancing one’s appearance can boost confidence, creating a positive self-image.
Research suggests that people who take time to doll up may feel better about themselves and experience increased social engagement.

Art

In art, 'dolling' can relate to how artists enhance their work with colors and textures to draw the viewer's eye.
Certain art movements emphasize adornment, recalling the historical practice of making objects more visually appealing.

Origin of 'dolling'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the informal verb 'to doll up', which has roots in the 19th century, meaning to dress up or adorn.
The term is derived from 'doll', which originally referred to a child's toy figure, symbolizing decoration and enhancement.

The word 'dolling' derives from the English word 'doll,' which has its roots in the late Middle Ages. The term 'doll' originally referred to a child's toy resembling a human figure, likely stemming from the name 'Dorothy' or 'Dolly,' which became a common term for female dolls. As the use of dolls expanded, the term began to encompass the ideas of dressing and adornment associated with them. The verb form 'dolling' began to emerge in the 19th century, signifying the act of dressing up, borrowing the connotations of adornment typically associated with dolls. Over time, the usage of 'dolling' evolved to include broader contexts of personal styling and flamboyance in appearance. Today, the concept often reflects cultural trends in fashion and self-presentation, embodying the playful yet serious aspects of visual self-expression.

Dolling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations