Jean Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘–
Add to dictionary

jean

[dส’iหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

type of clothing

Jeans are a type of trousers made from denim or other cotton fabric. They are known for their durability and comfort, making them a popular choice of casual wear. Jeans typically come in a variety of styles, including skinny, straight, bootcut, and wide-leg. They were originally designed as workwear in the late 19th century but have since become a staple in everyday fashion.

Synonyms

denim pants, slacks, trousers.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a pair of blue jeans to the party.
  • He prefers baggy jeans over tight styles.
  • My favorite jeans have a little stretch to them.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion History

  • Jeans were originally designed for miners in the 19th century as durable workwear.
  • They became a symbol of youth rebellion in the 1950s and 1960s when actors like Marlon Brando and James Dean wore them in movies.

Cultural Impact

  • In the 1980s, 'designer jeans' became a fashion trend, marked by brands like Calvin Klein and Guess.
  • Jeans are worn by people of all ages around the world, making them a staple in many cultures.

Science of Fashion

  • The dye used in blue jeans, indigo, has been a favorite for centuries due to its rich color and longevity.
  • Denim is made from cotton, which is a breathable material that helps keep you comfortable.

Environmental Aspects

  • The production of jeans can be resource-intensive, consuming large amounts of water and dye.
  • Many brands now focus on sustainable practices, creating jeans using recycled materials and eco-friendly processes.

Origin of 'jean'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'jean' comes from 'Genes', a city in Italy where a type of fabric was first made.
  • Initially, the fabric was called 'serge de Nรฎmes' which translates to 'serge from Nรฎmes', a city in France, leading to the name 'denim'.

The word 'jean' originates from the name of the city of Genoa, which was a major center for fabric production in the 17th century. The term initially referred to a type of sturdy cotton fabric known as 'jean cloth' that was made in Genoa. By the late 19th century, jeans as we know them today were popularized by American miners who needed durable and hard-wearing clothing. Levi Strauss, a German immigrant, began producing denim overalls for gold miners in California in 1850, which led to the modern jeans we are familiar with. The combination of denim fabric and riveted seams made jeans incredibly durable, and they quickly gained popularity among workers and, later, among various societal sectors as a fashion statement.