Pleat: meaning, definitions and examples

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pleat

[pliːt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

clothing design

A double or multiple fold in a garment or other item made of cloth, held by stitching the top or side.

Synonyms

crease, fold, tuck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pleat	Use "pleat" when referring to fabric that is folded or sewn into even, regular, and often decorative folds. This term is often used in fashion and textiles. The skirt has several pleats, giving it a fuller appearance. She meticulously ironed the pleats on her uniform.
fold	A "fold" is a general term for any bending of material that creates a shape. It can apply to paper, cloth, or any material that can be bent or doubled over on itself. She carefully folded the letter before putting it in the envelope. The map has several folds for easy storage.
crease	A "crease" typically refers to a line or ridge produced on paper, fabric, or another material by folding, pressing, or crushing. It can also refer to wrinkles on the skin or permanent lines. The term can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation, especially when implying unwanted wrinkles. The document had a visible crease down the center. His shirt was full of creases after the long flight.
tuck	Use "tuck" when referring to the action of inserting or pushing something into a small space, often to hide or secure it. It is also used in sewing and garment making to describe creating a fixed or temporary fold. He tucked the napkin into his shirt collar. She carefully tucked the loose ends of the blanket under the mattress.

Examples of usage

The dress had beautiful pleats along the waistline.
She ironed the pleats in her skirt to make them crisp.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

clothing design

To fold or form into pleats.

Synonyms

crease, fold, tuck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pleat	Duplicate entry for 'pleat'. Please refer to the first instance above.
fold	This is a general term used when one part of something is bent over another part. It can apply to paper, fabric, or other materials and is not specific to any pattern or number of folds. Fold the letter in half before putting it in the envelope. Please fold the laundry after it's dry.
crease	This term is often used to describe lines or marks made by folding or pressing something, typically paper or fabric. It can also refer to wrinkles in one's skin or in clothing. There's a crease in the middle of the paper. His shirt was full of creases after sitting all day.
tuck	This term is generally used when something is inserted or put into a particular place so that it is held tight, often used in clothing or bedding contexts. Tuck in your shirt before entering the classroom. She tucked her hair behind her ear.

Examples of usage

She pleated the fabric before sewing the dress.
The tailor expertly pleated the curtains for a perfect fit.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term comes from the Old French word 'pleit', meaning 'to fold'.
In medieval Europe, pleats were used to show social status, with more folds indicating higher status.
Pleating was often used in clothing to allow for movement, especially in long gowns worn in the 18th century.

Fashion and Textiles

In fashion, pleats can add volume to a garment or design, making it more stylish and unique.
The way pleats are constructed can change the drape and silhouette of clothing, influencing trends across various eras.
Designers like Coco Chanel popularized pleated skirts in the 1920s, creating a lasting impact on women's fashion.

Art and Design

Pleats are not just for clothing; they are used in paper art like origami, enhancing the structure and aesthetics.
Architectural designs sometimes incorporate pleats in surface treatment, creating visually appealing textures.
Contemporary artists use pleating in various materials, like metal and plastic, to explore form and depth.

Cultural Significance

In some cultures, specific pleating techniques can signify regional or cultural identity, like traditional dress in Scotland.
The sari, a traditional garment worn in South Asia, often features intricate pleats that are integral to its draping style.
Pleating techniques in various traditional attires can denote different occasions, from festive to formal.

Science and Technology

Research in textiles considers pleating to enhance the durability of fabrics, making them more resistant to wear.
Engineers apply pleating principles in designing lightweight and compact electronic devices, optimizing performance.
Pleat structures are also studied in material science for applications in filters and membranes, improving efficiency.

Translations

Translations of the word "pleat" in other languages:

🇵🇹 plissado

🇮🇳 प्लीट

🇩🇪 Falte

🇮🇩 lipatan

🇺🇦 складка

🇵🇱 fałda

🇯🇵 ひだ

🇫🇷 plissé

🇪🇸 pliegue

🇹🇷 pile

🇰🇷 주름

🇸🇦 طية

🇨🇿 záhyb

🇸🇰 záhyb

🇨🇳 褶皱

🇸🇮 guba

🇮🇸 felling

🇰🇿 қатпар

🇬🇪 ნაოჭი

🇦🇿 büküm

🇲🇽 pliegue

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,177 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
34174 gumption
34175 blowed
34176 stinger
34177 pleat
34178 ridging
34179 cawing
34180 bibliophile
...