Hosier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hosier

[ˈhoʊziər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

clothing industry

A hosier is a person or business that specializes in the manufacture and sale of hosiery, which includes items like stockings, tights, and socks. This term is often associated with retailers who offer various types of legwear and foot covers.

Synonyms

hosiery retailer, socks vendor, stocking maker.

Examples of usage

  • She bought a pair of nylon stockings from the local hosier.
  • Many hosiers offer a wide range of products for different occasions.
  • The hosier recommended a new brand of compression socks for athletes.

Translations

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Origin of 'hosier'

The word 'hosier' originates from the Middle English term 'hosier,' which is derived from the Old French 'housier' meaning 'stocking maker' or 'manufacturer of hosiery.' The Old French term itself draws from the Latin word 'follis,' meaning 'a bag' or 'a sack,' alluding to the bags used for storing stockings and other legwear. This suggests that the craft of hosiery making has deep historical roots, tracing back to the production of clothing items that have been essential for warmth and fashion throughout the centuries. Initially, hosiers would have operated as artisans creating stockings and socks by hand; over time, as technology advanced, the industry evolved, leading to greater variety and availability of hosiery products. Today, the term encompasses both individuals and businesses engaged in the manufacturing and retailing of hosiery, reflecting the evolving nature of fashion and textile industries.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,629, 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.