Garter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Fashion

• Garters were popular as a fashion accessory during the 17th and 18th centuries, often made from luxurious materials.
• Historically, a garter was also a symbol of nobility, particularly in Britain, where the Order of the Garter is one of the oldest chivalric orders.
• In some cultures, the garter toss at weddings is a fun tradition signifying good luck for the couple.

Pop Culture

• The iconic phrase 'The garter is the thing' plays on Shakespeare's original works, showcasing the garment's cultural significance.
• In movies and television, garters are often depicted as part of seductive outfits, adding to layers of meaning in romantic scenes.

History

• In medieval times, wearing a garter was a practical solution for both men and women to keep their clothing secure.
• Garters have seen a revival in modern fashion, sometimes worn as a rebellious symbol by contemporary designers.

Literature

• In Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales', the character of the Wife of Bath humorously mentions her garter as a metaphor for her various marriages.
• Literature often uses garters to symbolize the complexities of relationships, showing the balance between attraction and societal norms.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Old French 'gartere', which means to bind or to tie.
• It originally referred to a leather strap used to hold up trousers before evolving to its current use.

The word 'garter' comes from Middle English 'garter', which itself is derived from the Old French word 'garde', meaning to keep or guard. This term likely references the original function of garters, which was to hold up stockings or hose. Garters became particularly popular in the 15th century as part of women's fashions. Over time, they evolved not just into a functional piece of clothing but also as a symbol of sexuality and romance, especially in the context of bridal wear. The historical aspect also links to the ceremonial use of the term in the context of orders of knighthood, highlighting the dual significance of the word throughout history.

Positioned at #24,528, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

• ...
• 24525 girlhood
• 24526 unwisely
• 24527 hypersonic
• 24528 garter
• 24529 daunted
• 24530 ghee
• 24531 reestablishment
• ...