Plaiting: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'plait' comes from the French 'plier', meaning to fold or bend.
• Its usage in English dates back to the late 15th century, originally describing folds in fabric or hair.
• Related words include 'braid' and 'intertwine', which share similar meanings in terms of weaving.

Cultural Practices

• Different cultures have unique plaiting styles, such as the intricate cornrows in African cultures or the simple three-strand braids found globally.
• In some Native American tribes, hair plaiting is a spiritual act, often performed as a form of storytelling and connection to ancestry.
• In modern fashion, plaiting has influenced hairstyles on runways, with designers showcasing complex and artistic hair designs.

History

• Plaiting hair can be traced back thousands of years, with ancient depictions found in artifacts from Egypt and Greece.
• In medieval Europe, women used plaiting techniques to keep their hair tidy and to signify their marital status.
• Historical records show that plaited hairstyles were a symbol of status and sophistication amongst nobles in various cultures.

Science

• Plaiting can be similar to certain textile engineering practices, where fibers are intertwined for strength and durability.
• Studies show that the way hair is plaited can affect its health, as tight styles might cause breakage or damage.
• The mechanics of plaiting are related to knot theory, a field of mathematics exploring how entities are interconnected.

Psychology

• Engaging in plaiting or braiding has been shown to reduce stress, as repetitive hand movements can have a calming effect.
• Plaiting can also foster social bonding, especially among friends and family, as it’s often an activity done together.
• In cognitive development, the ability to create patterns through plaiting can enhance fine motor skills and spatial awareness.

This word's position of #30,710 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 30707 brainwashing
• 30708 joystick
• 30709 fuelling
• 30710 plaiting
• 30711 fecund
• 30712 prostituted
• 30713 dervish
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