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Foppery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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foppery

[หˆfษ’pษ™ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fashionable behavior

Foppery refers to the behavior or mannerisms characterized by excessive concern with one's appearance, manners, and dress. It often carries a connotation of superficiality, suggesting that a person is more focused on their looks than on substance. This term is typically used to describe someone who is overly concerned with being fashionable or stylish, sometimes to the point of ridiculousness. Foppery can also encompass ostentatious attitudes or behaviors that are meant to impress others. While it can be used humorously, it often critiques an individual's lack of depth or sincerity.

Synonyms

ostentation, pretense, vainglory.

Examples of usage

  • His foppery made him the center of attention at every party.
  • The foppery of the fashion show delighted some but bewildered others.
  • She was criticized for her foppery, as it overshadowed her true talents.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Foppery frequently appears in classic literature, often as a characteristic of comedic or foolish characters, highlighting societal norms about vanity.
  • In 'The Rake's Progress' by Hogarth, foppery is showcased through the character's obsession with luxury and appearance, symbolizing moral decay.
  • Playwrights such as Moliรจre used the concept of foppery to satirize the โ€˜รฉliteโ€™, poking fun at pretentiousness in society.

Fashion History

  • During the 18th century, foppery was often tied to the Dandy movement, where men would dress extravagantly to distinguish themselves in society.
  • Foppery can be traced back to distinct fashion trends where excessive embellishment in men's clothing was mocked, often through caricatures.
  • Fashion in the 1700s often celebrated foppery, with powdered wigs and ostentatious garments being popular among those wishing to display their wealth.

Social Commentary

  • Foppery has been used as a term to critique societal and cultural values that prioritize external appearances over inner qualities.
  • Modern interpretations of foppery can be found in today's social media culture, where the focus on idealized appearances can seem frivolous.
  • In critiques of consumer culture, foppery represents a shallow engagement with material possessions instead of meaningful relationships.

Origin of 'foppery'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'foppery' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the term 'fop,' meaning a foolish or vain man.
  • It is thought to come from the Middle English word 'foppen,' meaning to fool or deceive, showcasing the empty nature of vanity.
  • The suffix '-ery' is used to form nouns that denote a condition or quality, thus turning 'fop' into the quality of being fashionable in a foolish manner.

The term 'foppery' originates from the word 'fop,' which was used in the late 16th century to describe a man who is excessively concerned with his clothes and appearance. The word itself is thought to derive from the Middle English term 'foppe', meaning a fool or a simpleton. Over time, 'foppery' evolved to describe not just the individual but the behavior and attitudes associated with such vanity and superficiality. The rise of foppery can be observed particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries during the periods when fashion started to play a significant role in society. It was during this time that the fop became a recognizable social type, often depicted in literature and theater as someone who prioritizes appearance over intellect. Foppery critiques this cultural phenomenon, highlighting the frivolous nature of such preoccupations.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,104, 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.