Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Hobnailing: meaning, definitions and examples

👢
Add to dictionary

hobnailing

 

[ˈhʌbneɪlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

footwear, construction

Hobnailing refers to the process of attaching hobnails to the soles of shoes or boots for increased traction and durability. This practice is particularly common in the manufacture of heavy-duty footwear, especially for work purposes or outdoor activities. Hobnail boots are designed to provide better grip on rugged terrain and are often used by workers in construction, hiking, and military settings.

Synonyms

footwear enhancement, nailing.

Examples of usage

  • The soldier wore hobnailing boots for better grip.
  • Farmers often choose hobnailing shoes for field work.
  • Hobnailing is essential in making sturdy footwear.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'hobnail' comes from the Old English word 'habban', meaning 'to have' or 'to hold'.
  • Historically, hobnails have been used since at least the 14th century, showcasing their importance in footwear durability.
  • Many cultures refer to these nails in various forms, highlighting their widespread use and essential role in shoe-making.

Cultural Significance

  • Hobnailed boots were favored by soldiers for their toughness, providing better traction in battle.
  • In traditional crafts, some ranchers and cowboys wear hobnailed boots for durability while working outdoors.
  • Certain folk dances incorporate hobnail boots, as they create distinct sounds and rhythms when striking the ground.

Fashion and Footwear

  • In the 1800s, hobnailed shoes became fashionable among the working class due to their resilience.
  • Today, some high-fashion brands replicate the hobnailing technique to combine durability with stylish design.
  • Hobnails are often used in specialized footwear designed for trekking and climbing, providing an extra grip in rugged terrains.

Science and Engineering

  • The design of hobnails illustrates principles of friction and traction, essential for various engineering applications.
  • Materials used for hobnails must balance hardness and brittleness to withstand heavy use without breaking.
  • Research into footwear designs often includes studies on how hobnails impact balance and stability while walking.

Literature and Art

  • Hobnails appear in literature as symbols of ruggedness and resilience, often portraying the working-class experience.
  • In paintings, footwear with hobnails is depicted to show characters that are grounded and ready for labor-intensive tasks.
  • Poets have used hobnails in metaphors to convey strength and durability against life's challenges.

Translations

Translations of the word "hobnailing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aplique de pregos

🇮🇳 नाखून लगाना

🇩🇪 Hobnail

🇮🇩 memaku

🇺🇦 гобнейлінг

🇵🇱 wbijanie gwoździ

🇯🇵 ホブネイル

🇫🇷 clouage

🇪🇸 tacón

🇹🇷 çivileme

🇰🇷 홉네일

🇸🇦 تثبيت المسامير

🇨🇿 hřebíkování

🇸🇰 hřebíkovanie

🇨🇳 钉装

🇸🇮 žebljevje

🇮🇸 nagla

🇰🇿 түйрегіш

🇬🇪 წვრილი

🇦🇿 düymə

🇲🇽 clavado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,731, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.