Periwig Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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periwig

[ˈpɛrɪwɪɡ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

historical fashion

A periwig is a wig, especially one worn by men in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Synonyms

hairpiece, toupee, wig.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
periwig	Typically used in historical or formal contexts, referring to elaborate, often powdered wigs worn in the 17th and 18th centuries. The judge wore a periwig as part of his official attire. In the painting, the nobleman donned a periwig.
wig	A broad term for any full head covering of synthetic or natural hair. Suitable for both casual and formal contexts, including theatrical and day-to-day use. She wore a bright red wig for the costume party. Actors often wear wigs to change their appearance for different roles.
hairpiece	A general term that can refer to any synthetic or natural hair addition used to cover baldness or add volume. Common in everyday language. She bought a hairpiece to add volume to her hairstyle. He decided to use a hairpiece to cover his thinning hair.
toupee	Specifically refers to a small hairpiece worn to cover a bald spot, generally associated with balding men. Sometimes carries a negative or humorous connotation. He's very self-conscious about his balding, so he wears a toupee. The comedian joked about his toupee slipping during the windy day.

Examples of usage

They used to wear periwig to look more fashionable.
The periwig was a popular accessory among the aristocracy.
The periwig fell out of fashion in the 19th century.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'periwig' comes from the French word 'perruque,' which originally referred to hair taken from animals or humans.
These wigs became fashionable in the 17th century, especially in Europe, and were often made of horse or goat hair.
During the 18th century, periwigs indicated social status; the bigger the wig, the higher the rank of the person wearing it.

Fashion

Periwigs were often powdered to enhance their appearance, giving a white or gray look that was popular among the elite.
They were commonly styled with curls and braids, resembling luxurious hairstyles of the time.
These wigs took hours to create, and wearing them required special care, often needing a dedicated wig maker.

Literature and Arts

In literature, characters described as wearing periwigs often symbolize pretentiousness or excessive formality.
Many famous portraits from the period depict men of stature wearing elaborate periwigs, reinforcing their importance.
The use of periwigs is a recurring theme in Baroque and Rococo art, showcasing the blend of fashion and artistry.

Cultural Significance

In England, periwigs became mandatory for judges and barristers during the 17th century, a fashion still partially observed today.
The decline of periwigs began in the late 18th century due to changing fashions, leading to more natural hairstyles.
Modern interpretations of wigs often reference periwigs for their historical significance, seen frequently in theater and costume events.

Psychology

Wearing a periwig could affect the wearer's confidence; historically, people believed a grand appearance enhanced social interactions.
The psychological concept of clothing influencing behavior links to how periwigs were used to project power and authority.
Studies suggest that elaborate costumes can enhance performance and social roles, echoing the past use of periwigs for status.

Origin of 'periwig'

The term periwig originated from the French word 'perruque' which means wig. Wigs were commonly worn by men in the 17th and 18th centuries as a symbol of status and fashion. The periwig fell out of fashion as natural hairstyles became more popular in the 19th century. Today, periwig is mainly used in historical contexts or theatrical performances.