Overalls Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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overalls
[ˈoʊvərɔːlz ]
Definition
clothing
A type of garment consisting of trousers with a front flap over the chest held up by straps over the shoulders, made of sturdy material such as denim.
Synonyms
coveralls, dungarees, workwear.
Examples of usage
- He wore his overalls to work on the farm every day.
- She bought a new pair of overalls for her gardening hobby.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Originally designed in the 18th century for laborers, they provided durability and protection while working.
- The name 'overalls' comes from the idea of them being worn over other clothes for protection.
- They became popular during the Industrial Revolution as factory workers needed practical clothing.
Fashion
- In the 1960s, overalls made a stylish comeback as part of the counterculture movement, often associated with hippies.
- Today, they are worn by everyone, from farmers to high-fashion designers, showcasing their versatility.
- Various styles exist, including cropped, long, and even embellished versions, making them a fun fashion statement.
Pop Culture
- Overalls have appeared in numerous movies and cartoons, often symbolizing a carefree lifestyle - think of characters like Bob the Builder and Penny Lane from Almost Famous.
- In the 90s, they were a staple of youth culture, made famous by many musicians and artists alike.
- They continue to reappear in fashion trends, often seen worn by celebrities in casual outings.
Practical Uses
- They're favored in jobs requiring physical work, such as gardening, farming, and construction for their ease of movement.
- Many modern versions come with functional features like water resistance and reinforced stitching for enhanced durability.
- They're also popular among children for play, as they allow for easy movement and are often designed to be durable.
Cultural Significance
- In American culture, overalls are often associated with rural life and farming, reflecting simplicity and practicality.
- Different cultures have their own versions, such as 'dungarees' in the UK, illustrating how practical clothing transcends borders.
- They are often seen as a symbol of hard work and blue-collar labor, valued for their functional design.
Origin of 'overalls'
The term 'overalls' originated in the United States in the late 18th century, initially referring to a protective garment worn over regular clothing for working. Over time, the design evolved into the familiar one-piece garment we know today. Overalls became popular among workers in various industries due to their durability and practicality. Today, overalls are also worn as casual or fashion garments by people of all ages.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #19,885, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 19882 attesting
- 19883 lapping
- 19884 voidable
- 19885 overalls
- 19886 replenishment
- 19887 disintegrate
- 19888 evocative
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