Footwear Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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footwear
[หfสt.wษษr ]
Definitions
for walking
Footwear refers to garments worn on the feet, which serve to protect and comfort the human foot while doing various activities. They can also be used for fashion and adornment purposes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| footwear |
A general term for all types of shoes, boots, sandals, and other items worn on the feet.
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| shoes |
A general term for closed-toed footwear, suitable for various occasions including formal, casual, and athletic activities.
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| boots |
Sturdy shoes that usually cover the ankle and are often used for specific activities like hiking, work, or snow.
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| sandals |
Open-toed footwear, usually worn in warm weather and often casual in nature.
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Examples of usage
- Her footwear consists of sneakers and boots.
- I need to buy new footwear for hiking.
in sports
In sports, footwear is essential for providing support, traction, and stability during physical activities. Different sports may require specific types of footwear for optimal performance.
Synonyms
cleats, sports shoes.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| footwear |
A general term that describes anything worn on the feet, suitable for everyday conversation, shopping, or fashion contexts.
|
| sports shoes |
Refers to shoes designed specifically for sports or physical activities, commonly used in conversations about exercise, gyms, and physical training.
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| cleats |
Refers specifically to shoes with protrusions on the sole for better traction, often used in sports contexts like soccer or football.
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Examples of usage
- Proper footwear is crucial for preventing injuries in running.
- Basketball players need specialized footwear for the court.
formal occasions
On formal occasions, footwear plays a significant role in completing an outfit. Elegant and polished footwear can enhance the overall look and make a fashion statement.
Synonyms
dress shoes, formal shoes, heels.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| footwear |
General term for anything you wear on your feet.
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| dress shoes |
Refers to smart, stylish shoes that are typically worn with formal or business attire.
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| heels |
Specifically refers to women's shoes with a raised heel, often worn for fashion or formal occasions.
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| formal shoes |
Specifically used to indicate shoes suitable for formal occasions like weddings, business meetings, or ceremonies.
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Examples of usage
- She chose a pair of high heels as her formal footwear.
- Men usually wear dress shoes for formal events.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Sandals are one of the oldest forms of footwear, dating back to ancient Egypt and worn by people for thousands of years.
- The invention of modern footwear saw the introduction of the high heel in the 16th century, originally worn by men to aid in riding.
- Sneakers, initially designed for sports, became a major fashion trend in the 1980s and marked a cultural shift towards casual dressing.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, footwear can signify status; for example, luxury brands are often associated with wealth and prestige.
- Traditional shoes in different cultures tell stories, like the wooden clogs of the Netherlands or the colorful Huichol beaded sandals of Mexico.
- In some regions, removing shoes before entering a home is a sign of respect and cleanliness in various cultures.
Fashion
- Footwear is a major sector in fashion, with styles changing seasonally, ensuring that whatโs in vogue varies from year to year.
- Athleisure, a trend combining athletic wear with casual clothing, has resulted in the rise of fashionable sneakers as everyday footwear.
- Fashion shows often highlight innovative footwear designs, showcasing unique materials, shapes, and artful expressions.
Health and Psychology
- Wearing the right footwear can significantly impact posture and overall foot health, reducing pain and preventing injuries.
- Studies suggest that certain footwear impacts how confident a person feels; for instance, wearing high heels may boost self-esteem in some women.
- Footwear can also influence first impressions; studies show that people often judge others by their shoes, linking them to social status or personality.
Origin of 'footwear'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'footwear' combines 'foot' (from Old English 'fลt') and 'wear', which means to use or have something on.
- In ancient times, people wrapped their feet in leaves or animal skins, leading to the development of more complex footwear.
- The term 'footgear' is often used interchangeably with 'footwear', though 'footwear' is more commonly accepted.
The term 'footwear' originated in the late 16th century, combining 'foot' and 'wear' to refer to items worn on the feet. Throughout history, footwear has evolved from simple protective coverings to fashionable accessories, reflecting changes in culture and technology.
See also: feet, foot, footage, football, footfall, footgear, foothold, footing, footmark, footpath, footprint, footrest, footrests, footstep, footstool, footy.