Shoehorn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shoehorn
[หสuหhษหrn ]
Definitions
footwear aid
A shoehorn is a tool designed to help put on shoes. It is typically made of plastic or metal and has a curved shape that allows the heel of the foot to slide easily into the shoe without damaging the shoe's structure or back.
Synonyms
shoe aid, shoe support.
Examples of usage
- I always use a shoehorn to put on my snug boots.
- The shoehorn made it so much easier to wear my new sneakers.
- Using a shoehorn can prolong the life of your shoes.
- He grabbed his shoehorn before slipping on his dress shoes for the event.
to force
To shoehorn means to force something into a space too small for it or to fit something tightly, often with difficulty. It can refer to literally squeezing an object into a confined area, or metaphorically applying to situations where a person or idea is forced into a context where it does not naturally belong.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She had to shoehorn all her belongings into the small car.
- They tried to shoehorn the new software into the outdated system.
- He felt like he was being shoehorned into a role that wasn't right for him.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, a shoehorn symbolizes hospitality, as offering one to a guest implies caring for their comfort.
- Shoe horns have appeared in popular films, often used to signify a characterโs class or elegance.
Science
- The design of a shoehorn is based on the physics of angles, allowing it to create a smoother transition for the foot into tighter shoes.
- Different materials, like plastic and metal, have varying flexibility and durability, impacting how easily shoes can be put on.
Craftsmanship
- Handcrafted shoehorns have become collectible items, especially those made from exotic woods or featuring intricate designs.
- Some shoehorns are designed with ergonomic handles for added comfort, enhancing the user's experience.
Fashion
- Shoehorns can also be considered fashion accessories, with luxury brands creating stylish options that reflect personal taste.
- In modern fashion, using a shoehorn is sometimes seen as a sign of sophistication and respect for footwear.
Origin of 'shoehorn'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'shoehorn' comes from the combination of 'shoe' and 'horn', referencing the traditional use of horn materials to create the tool.
- Historically, shoehorns were often made from materials like animal horn or wood, highlighting their practical origins.
The term 'shoehorn' dates back to the 15th century and is derived from its literal use as a tool designed to assist in slipping on shoes. The word could be split into 'shoe', which is of Old English origin 'sceo', and 'horn', which refers to the material used for creating the earliest versions of this tool, often made from animal horns. Over time, the shoehorn evolved in material and design but maintained its primary function. The term emerged as both a noun and a verb in the late 20th century, especially as 'to shoehorn' began to take on additional meanings in various contexts, including societal and technological applications where force or awkward fit was involved.