Finery: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Middle English 'finery,' derived from 'fine,' which meant something elegant or of high quality.
• In the 14th century, 'finery' began to be used specifically for the elegant garments of the wealthy.
• Its roots go back to Old French 'fine,' which also relates to purity and brightness, aligning with the essence of beautiful items.

Historical Context

• During the Renaissance, finery was a display of social status, with elaborate fabrics and designs representing wealth and power.
• In the 18th century, courtly life in Europe was characterized by extravagant finery, where nobility wore intricate costumes adorned with lace and embroidery.
• Royal families often used finery not just for personal expression but as a political statement, showcasing their fashion to influence public perception.

Cultural Significance

• In many cultures, special occasions such as weddings and festivals prominently feature finery to signify joy and celebration.
• In traditional Indian culture, brides wear elaborate finery, including sarees and jewelry, as a symbol of auspiciousness and festivity.
• Fashion designers today continue to create collections that reflect finery, blending modern aesthetics with historical influences.

Literature and Arts

• In literature, finery often symbolizes the characters' wealth and status, influencing their social interactions and narratives.
• Classic artworks frequently depict figures adorned in finery, emphasizing the divide between classes and the allure of wealth.
• Shakespeare's plays often reference characters' finery to illustrate their social rank and influence, showcasing the obsession with appearance.

Fashion Evolution

• Fashion trends have shifted finery from strictly luxurious materials to also include minimalistic designs and sustainable practices.
• The 20th century saw a democratization of finery; with mass production, beautiful clothing became accessible to broader societal levels.
• At modern events like the Met Gala, finery is showcased as bold personal expression, often blending art with fashion in unexpected ways.

Positioned at #21,822, 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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• 21819 impostor
• 21820 bolting
• 21821 resonate
• 21822 finery
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• 21824 trope
• 21825 liars
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