Jandal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🩴

Add to dictionary

jandal

[ˈdʒændl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

footwear

A type of sandal commonly worn in New Zealand and Australia, typically made of rubber and having a V-shaped strap that goes between the big toe and the second toe.

Synonyms

flip-flop, sandal, thong.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
jandal	Commonly used in New Zealand to refer to footwear that has a flat sole held loosely on the foot by a Y-shaped strap. Appropriate for casual, beach, or summer wear. I packed my jandals for the beach trip. Walking along the pier in my jandals was so relaxing.
flip-flop	Often used in the United States and other English-speaking countries to describe casual footwear suitable for warm weather, typically with a Y-shaped strap. Ideal for informal occasions such as vacations or lounging. I bought a new pair of flip-flops for the summer. She wore flip-flops to walk around the pool.
thong	In Australian English, it's commonly used to refer to what Americans call flip-flops. However, in other English-speaking countries, the term 'thong' usually refers to a type of undergarment, which can be confusing. In Australia, you'll often see people wearing thongs to the beach. He lost one of his thongs while surfing.
sandal	A general term for open-toed footwear that can come in various styles, including formal and casual. Suitable for a range of settings from beaches to more upscale events depending on the design. I wore elegant sandals to the garden party. Simple leather sandals are perfect for a casual day out.

Examples of usage

Kiwis love to wear jandals to the beach.
She slipped on her jandals before heading out for a walk.
He always wears his jandals around the house.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

In New Zealand, jandals are not just shoes; they represent a laid-back lifestyle commonly associated with beach outings.
During summer, it's common to see kiwis wearing jandals for everything from barbecues to casual gatherings.
In some cultures, the jandal symbolizes freedom and casual living, making them emblematic of vacation vibes.

Global Variations

In the United States and Canada, these shoes are often called 'flip-flops.'
In some Asian countries, similar footwear is termed 'havaianas' or 'slippers,' though they can vary in style.
Different materials are used around the world, from rubber to plastic, showcasing the adaptability of the design.

Fashion and Trends

Jandals have evolved from basic beach wear to high-fashion items in designer collections.
Collaborations with celebrities have made these casual shoes trendy, with exciting designs and bold colors.
Sustainability trends are influencing some brands to produce jandals from recycled materials, promoting eco-friendliness.

Science & Comfort

Studies suggest that wearing jandals may lead to foot discomfort if worn for long periods due to lack of arch support.
They allow feet to breathe, making them popular in hot weather, but prolonged use can affect your posture.
Research highlights the importance of finding well-fitted jandals, as size and style can significantly impact foot health.

Origin of 'jandal'

Main points about word origin

The word 'jandal' is a blend of 'Japanese' and 'sandal,' reflecting its design's origins.
It became popular in New Zealand, where people widely use the term for flip-flops.
The name was first coined in the 1950s, showcasing the global influence of different cultures in fashion.

The term 'jandal' is a blend of 'Japanese' and 'sandal', reflecting the origin of this type of footwear. Jandals became popular in New Zealand and Australia in the 1950s and have since become a staple in the casual footwear culture of these countries.