Ribbon: meaning, definitions and examples

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ribbon

[ˈrɪbən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

decorative material

A narrow strip of material, typically used for tying something or for decoration.

Synonyms

band, strip, tape.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ribbon	This appears to be a repeated entry. See the first description for appropriate context and examples.
band	Often refers to a flat, narrow piece of material that holds things together or is worn around a body part. It can also describe a group of musicians or a range of frequencies. He wore a rubber band around his wrist. She bought a new band for her watch. The band played their latest songs at the concert.
strip	A long, narrow piece of something. Often describes small, thin sections of material removed from a larger piece. Can sometimes carry a more technical or neutral connotation. He cut the paper into thin strips. The lights in the room were accented by LED strips. She used a strip of cloth to bandage the wound.
tape	Usually refers to adhesive material used to stick things together or seal packages. Can also refer to a magnetic strip used for recording audio or video. She used clear tape to wrap the gift. He recorded the interview on a cassette tape. The box was securely sealed with packing tape.

Examples of usage

She tied a ribbon around the gift box.
The dancers wore ribbons in their hair.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

prize or award

A strip of colored fabric awarded as a prize or given as a symbol of honor or achievement.

Synonyms

award, medal, prize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ribbon	A narrow strip of material, often given at events like fairs, school competitions, or ceremonies to denote accomplishment or participation. He received a blue ribbon for his science project
award	A formal recognition given for an achievement, often in professional or academic fields, usually involving a certificate, trophy, or another significant token. She received an award for her outstanding contribution to the research project
prize	Something given as a reward in a contest, competition, lottery, or any activity where participants vie for the best outcome. The term is broader and can include money, gifts, trips, etc. She won the first prize in the essay competition
medal	A metal disc given as a prize for a particular achievement, typically in sports, military, or other formal fields. He won a gold medal in the Olympics

Examples of usage

He won a blue ribbon at the competition.
The medal was attached to a red ribbon.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

decorate with ribbon

To adorn or decorate with ribbon or ribbons.

Synonyms

adorn, decorate, embellish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ribbon	Utilize when referring to a narrow piece of cloth used for tying or decoration, often in contexts like clothing, gifts, or awards. She tied the ribbon around her ponytail. He added a ribbon to the gift box for a festive touch.
decorate	Appropriate for everyday use when talking about making a place or object look more attractive by adding items. Commonly used for home interiors, events, and holidays. They decorated the Christmas tree with ornaments and lights. She loves to decorate her house for Halloween.
adorn	Best suited for more formal contexts where you want to describe adding decorative details to something or someone to make them look more beautiful. The bride was adorned with jewels on her wedding day. They adorned the hall with flowers for the celebration.
embellish	Used when talking about adding extra details to make something more attractive or interesting, sometimes to the point of exaggeration. Can imply a sense of adding unnecessary details. He likes to embellish his stories to make them more entertaining. The artist embellished the painting with gold leaf.

Examples of usage

She ribboned the Christmas tree with colorful ribbons.
The gift was ribboned beautifully.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word ‘ribbon’ comes from the Old French term 'riband,' which referred to a strip of cloth.
It has roots in the Middle High German word ‘ribung,’ meaning ‘to weave,’ highlighting its textile connection.
The pronunciation of the word evolved over centuries, reflecting changes in language and culture.

Cultural Significance

Ribbons are used in various traditions like tied around gifts to signify celebration and giving.
In many cultures, certain colored ribbons represent awareness for various causes, such as pink for breast cancer awareness.
During graduation ceremonies, students often wear colored ribbons that represent their school or field of study.

Art and Craft

Ribbons are fundamental in crafts, especially in making bows for presents or decorative arrangements.
Artists have incorporated ribbons into artworks, using them to symbolize freedom and the movement of thoughts.
Ribbons can also be woven into textiles and fabrics to create unique patterns and textures.

Fashion

Ribbons have been historically significant in fashion, dating back to the 1700s when they were used to accessorize outfits.
They can transform a simple outfit into something special by adding color and elegance.
Many hairstyles incorporate ribbons, creating a playful or sophisticated look depending on how they're used.

Symbolism

Ribbons often symbolize ties and connections, representing both relationships and emotional bonds.
They can signify loyalty or support within communities, particularly when used in awareness campaigns.
In literature, ribbons can represent beauty, femininity, and the complexity of existence.

Translations

Translations of the word "ribbon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fita

laço
faixa

🇮🇳 फीता

🇩🇪 Band

Schleife
Bandmaß

🇮🇩 pita

🇺🇦 стрічка

🇵🇱 wstążka

🇯🇵 リボン (ribon)

🇫🇷 ruban

🇪🇸 cinta

🇹🇷 kurdele

🇰🇷 리본 (ribon)

🇸🇦 شريط

🇨🇿 stuha

🇸🇰 stuha

🇨🇳 丝带 (sīdài)

🇸🇮 trak

🇮🇸 borði

🇰🇿 ленте

🇬🇪 ლენტი (lenti)

🇦🇿 lent

🇲🇽 cinta

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,575 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8572 excepted
8573 neutrality
8574 ventured
8575 ribbon
8576 rushing
8577 blamed
8578 supposedly
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