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Sandal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ก
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sandal

[หˆsรฆndl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

footwear

A sandal is an open type of footwear, consisting of a sole held to the wearer's foot by straps going over the instep and, sometimes, around the ankle. Sandals can be flat or have a slight heel.

Synonyms

flip-flop, slipper, thong sandal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sandal

Appropriate for casual or semi-formal outdoor settings during warm weather. Often used as a general term for open-toed footwear.

  • She wore stylish leather sandals to the summer picnic.
  • His sandals were perfect for the beach day.
flip-flop

Best suited for very casual settings such as the beach or pool. The sound they make when walking gave them the name.

  • He wore flip-flops to the pool party.
  • She kept a pair of flip-flops in her bag for walking on hot sand.
thong sandal

Similar to flip-flops, but can also refer to more stylish, sometimes dressier toe-post footwear. Suitable for casual wear.

  • Her thong sandals paired nicely with her summer dress.
  • They opted for thong sandals on their tropical vacation.
slipper

Commonly used indoors for comfort and warmth around the house. Not usually worn outside.

  • She loves wearing her fluffy slippers during the winter.
  • He put on his slippers as soon as he got home from work.

Examples of usage

  • I love wearing sandals in the summer.
  • She bought a new pair of leather sandals.
  • The beach is the perfect place to wear sandals.
Context #2 | Noun

ancient times

In ancient times, sandals were the most common form of footwear, worn by both men and women. They were usually made of leather or straw.

Synonyms

footwear, shoe, slipper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sandal

Light, open shoes often worn in warm weather; typically fastened with straps.

  • She wore sandals to the beach.
  • He chose sandals for the summer hike.
footwear

General term for items worn on the feet, including shoes, sandals, boots, etc.

  • The store offers a wide range of footwear.
  • Proper footwear is essential for a long walk.
shoe

Common term for a variety of enclosed footwear designed to protect or comfort the foot.

  • He bought a new pair of running shoes.
  • Her shoes matched perfectly with her dress.
slipper

Comfortable, soft, indoor footwear often used at home.

  • She put on her slippers after a long day of work.
  • He gave her a pair of warm slippers for Christmas.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Greeks wore sandals in everyday life.
  • Roman soldiers wore sandals in battle.
  • Sandals were practical footwear in hot climates.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Sandals are traditionally worn in many cultures around the world, from the huaraches of Mexico to the flip-flops of Hawaii.
  • In ancient Egypt, sandals were often made of papyrus, and pharaohs wore them as a sign of status.
  • Different styles of sandals can signify various rites of passage or cultural practices, like the Japanese 'geta' worn in festivals.

Fashion Trends

  • In the 1960s and 70s, sandals became fashionable in Western culture as part of the counterculture movement.
  • Modern sandals come in various styles, including flip-flops, gladiators, and slides, with much innovation in materials and aesthetics.
  • High-fashion brands have incorporated sandals into runway shows, showcasing how they can be both casual and chic.

Practical Use

  • Sandals are popular in warm climates because they allow feet to breathe and stay cool.
  • Many people wear sandals at home for comfort and ease, especially during warmer seasons.
  • Some styles of sandals are designed for outdoor activities, providing more support and durability.

Origin of 'sandal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sandal' comes from the Greek word 'sandalon', which is related to the Latin 'sandalium'.
  • In ancient times, sandals were made from materials like leather, wood, and plant fibers, showing their long history.
  • The design of sandals has evolved, but the basic concept of a strappy, open shoe remains timeless.

The word 'sandal' originates from the Greek word 'sandalion', which in turn comes from the word 'sandal'. Sandals have been worn by various civilizations throughout history, from the ancient Egyptians to the Romans. They have evolved in style and material over the centuries, but the basic concept of an open-toed shoe held on by straps has remained consistent.

See also: sand, sandbox, sandpaper, sandpiper, sandpit, sandwich, sandy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,006, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.