Plait: meaning, definitions and examples

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plait

[pleɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

hairstyle

A plait is a braid, typically in the hair, formed by intertwining three or more strands of material.

Synonyms

braid, twist, weave.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
plait	This word is often used in British English and commonly refers to a hairstyle where hair is divided and interlaced. It can also refer to materials like straw that are woven together. She wore her hair in a single long plait. The basket was made from finely plaited straw.
braid	Predominantly used in American English, this term is mainly used to describe a hairstyle where hair is divided into three or more sections and woven together. She braided her hair before going to school. The decorative braid on the uniform looked very elegant.
twist	This word can describe the action of winding or interlacing something, often rope, threads, or hair, but it implies a more general and less structured weaving compared to plait or braid. You have to twist the wires together to make a stronger connection. She wore her hair in a twisted updo for the wedding.
weave	Typically used to describe the interlacing of threads to make fabric or other materials. It can also refer to styling hair in an intricate pattern, but it's less specific than braid or plait. She learned to weave on a traditional wooden loom. He decided to weave the ribbons into his daughter's hair.

Examples of usage

She wore her hair in a long plait down her back.
The little girl had a plait in her hair for the party.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

hairstyling

To plait means to weave strands of material together, typically referring to hair.

Synonyms

braid, twist, weave.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
plait	Usually used in British English to refer to intertwined hair or material, often in a simple pattern. She wore her hair in a neat plait The children learned how to plait reeds into baskets
braid	Common in American English, typically refers to the interweaving of hair, threads, or other materials into a complex pattern. She braided her daughter's hair every morning The rug was made of colorful threads braided together
twist	Used to describe the action of turning something or when two or more elements are turned together, often creating a rope-like structure. Can also have a metaphorical meaning. He twisted the wires together to secure the connection The plot of the novel had many unexpected twists and turns
weave	Generally refers to the process of interlacing threads to make fabric or other materials, but can also describe the motion of moving back and forth or through something. She learned how to weave on a traditional loom The bicycle weaved through the busy traffic

Examples of usage

She decided to plait her hair for the special occasion.
He plaited ribbons into her hair for the dance recital.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'plait' comes from the Old French word 'plate', meaning 'fold', which relates to how the strands are folded together.
In Middle English, 'plet' also referred to a braid, showing how ancient languages influenced modern terms.
The pronunciation has shifted from 'plat' in earlier times to 'plait' in contemporary usage, reflecting the evolution of language.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, braiding hair is a traditional practice, often signifying age, wisdom, and community belonging.
Certain styles of plaiting are specific to regions or cultures, like the intricate styles worn by African women as symbols of identity and heritage.
Plaiting can also be used in weaving other materials, such as fabric or grass, demonstrating creativity beyond just hair.

Fashion and Art

In fashion, plaiting techniques feature prominently in creating unique hairstyles that showcase personal style and creativity.
Artists use plaiting in various forms, such as basket weaving, to create artistic pieces that are both functional and decorative.
The art of plaiting has inspired various fashion trends, where complex braid designs are showcased on runways and red carpets.

Psychological Aspects

Braiding hair can provide a sense of comfort and connection, often associated with personal identity and cultural roots.
The act of plaiting can be therapeutic, allowing individuals to focus their minds and relieve stress while creating something beautiful.
Plaiting is sometimes used in team-building activities, as it encourages collaboration and communication among participants.

History

Ancient Egyptians were known to braid their hair, which often included gold threads or decorations indicating social status.
Many historical texts mention the importance of braided hairstyles, which varied across different civilizations, including the Greeks and Vikings.
In the 1800s, plaiting became more standardized in European hairdressing, leading to the modern hairstyles we see today.

Translations

Translations of the word "plait" in other languages:

🇵🇹 trança

🇮🇳 चोटी

🇩🇪 Zopf

🇮🇩 kepang

🇺🇦 коса

🇵🇱 warkocz

🇯🇵 編み込み

🇫🇷 tresse

🇪🇸 trenza

🇹🇷 örgü

🇰🇷 땋은 머리

🇸🇦 ضفيرة

🇨🇿 cop

🇸🇰 vrkoč

🇨🇳 辫子

🇸🇮 plet

🇮🇸 flétta

🇰🇿 шаш

🇬🇪 წნული

🇦🇿 hörük

🇲🇽 trenza

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,018, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
27015 clinched
27016 spangled
27017 sextant
27018 plait
27019 headship
27020 senility
27021 cherub
...