Petticoat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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petticoat

[หˆpษ›tษชหŒkoสŠt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

undergarment

A petticoat is an undergarment worn under a skirt or dress, typically to give it fullness or shape.

Synonyms

underskirt.

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Word Description / Examples
petticoat

Typically used to describe a decorative undergarment worn under a skirt or dress to add volume or as a fashion statement.

  • She wore a petticoat under her dress to make it look more elegant.
  • The historical costume included a lace petticoat.
underskirt

A general term for any skirt worn underneath another skirt, often providing a practical function such as additional warmth or modesty, rather than for decoration.

  • In winter, she preferred to wear an underskirt for extra warmth.
  • The traditional dress required an underskirt to maintain its shape.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a white petticoat under her wedding gown.
  • The Victorian era saw the use of elaborate petticoats to achieve the desired silhouette.
  • Her petticoat rustled as she walked.
  • I need to buy a new petticoat for my costume.
  • The petticoat added volume to her ball gown.
Context #2 | Noun

historical

In historical contexts, a petticoat could also refer to a separate garment worn under a skirt or dress as an outer layer.

Synonyms

underskirt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
petticoat

Commonly used in historical or literary contexts referring to a woman's undergarment worn to give volume to skirts. It may also appear in conversations about vintage fashion.

  • In the classic novel, the heroine wore a petticoat under her gown.
  • The museum displayed a beautifully embroidered petticoat from the Victorian era.
underskirt

Typically used in modern fashion contexts, especially to describe an undergarment worn beneath a dress or skirt to add fullness or for modesty. This term is straightforward and has no historical connotations.

  • She added an underskirt to give her wedding dress more volume.
  • The costume designer recommended an underskirt to enhance the dress's silhouette.

Examples of usage

  • The petticoat she wore was made of silk and had intricate lace trimmings.
  • During the Renaissance period, petticoats were often richly embroidered.
  • Her petticoat peeked out from under her skirt.
  • The layers of petticoats added to the extravagance of her outfit.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from Middle English, where 'petit' means small and 'coat' refers to a garment.
  • Originally worn in the 16th century, petticoats were essential for womenโ€™s fashion to create volume in dresses.

Fashion Trends

  • In Victorian times, petticoats became more elaborate, often featuring layers of lace and ruffles to enhance the silhouette.
  • During the 1950s, petticoats were popularized by rock 'n' roll culture, often worn under swing dresses for a fuller look.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, petticoats symbolize femininity and modesty, playing an important role in traditional attire.
  • The phrase 'petticoat government' refers to a time when womenโ€™s influence was seen as strong, especially in domestic affairs.

Literature

  • Famous novels and stories often depict characters wearing petticoats, emphasizing their social status and femininity.
  • In classic literature, petticoats can symbolize innocence or the constraints of societal expectations on women.

Modern Use

  • Today, petticoats have been reimagined in fashion, sometimes worn as statement pieces or incorporated into everyday outfits.
  • Contemporary designers often use petticoat-like structures to create avant-garde and structured silhouettes in high fashion.

Origin of 'petticoat'

The word "petticoat" originated in the 15th century, combining the words "petty," meaning small or slight, and "coat." Initially, petticoats were worn as an undergarment to protect outer clothing from dirt and sweat. Over time, they evolved into fashion pieces, especially during the Victorian era. Petticoats were often adorned with lace, frills, and intricate embroidery, reflecting the social status and wealth of the wearer.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,373, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.