Launderette Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งบ
launderette
[หlษหndษหrษt ]
Definition
self-service laundry
A launderette, also known as a laundromat or coin laundry, is a facility equipped with machines for washing and drying clothes. Customers typically pay to use the machines on a self-service basis. Launderettes are commonly found in urban areas and are popular among those who do not have access to washing machines in their homes. They often feature coin-operated machines and sometimes offer additional services such as folding or dry cleaning.
Synonyms
laundromat, self-service laundry, washhouse.
Examples of usage
- I went to the launderette to wash my blankets.
- The local launderette is always busy on weekends.
- She dropped her clothes off at the launderette for a quick wash.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- During the 20th century, launderettes became popular in urban areas, providing a communal space for both washing clothes and socializing.
- Launderettes often serve as a backdrop in films and literature, symbolizing everyday life and connection among characters.
History
- The first recorded self-service laundry opened in 1940 in Fort Worth, Texas, which revolutionized the way people handled laundry.
- In the 1960s, launderettes became trendy spots, featuring amenities like jukeboxes and cafes to attract customers.
Economics
- Launderettes can be profitable businesses, especially in cities, as they cater to commuters and residents without personal washing machines.
- They often operate on a coin or card system, making it easy for customers to pay without needing to interact with employees.
Technology
- Modern launderettes now often feature high-efficiency machines that use less water and energy, reflecting increased environmental awareness.
- Many launderettes have integrated mobile applications, allowing customers to check machine availability and receive notifications when their laundry is done.
Origin of 'launderette'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'launderette' comes from the verb 'launder', which means to wash or clean clothes, combined with the suffix '-ette' that indicates a place.
- Similar terms are used in other languages, like 'lavanderรญa' in Spanish and 'laverie' in French, showing the concept's widespread use.
The term 'launderette' is derived from the word 'laundry,' which refers to the washing of clothes, and the suffix '-ette,' used to denote a smaller form or version. The concept of launderettes began to gain popularity in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s, coinciding with the post-World War II economic boom and the increasing number of households that either could not afford or chose not to have home washing facilities. The first self-service laundry was opened in 1934 in Fort Worth, Texas. By the late 20th century, launderettes emerged in various countries, adapting to local cultures and practices. Today, launderettes are essential businesses in urban areas to provide affordable laundry services for people living in apartments or those without washing facilities at home.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #39,999, 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.