Skirting: meaning, definitions and examples

👗
Add to dictionary

skirting

 

[ˈskɜːrtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in fashion

A strip of fabric attached to the bottom of a skirt, dress, or coat for decoration or to provide a finished edge.

Synonyms

edging, frill, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
skirting

Another usage could be to describe avoiding or evading a topic or issue, especially in conversation.

  • She kept skirting the issue whenever it came up.
  • Stop skirting around the topic and say what you mean.
trim

Used in various contexts, such as fashion, sewing, interior design, and even grooming, to describe a neat or decorative edge. It can also mean to cut or reduce something.

  • The jacket had an elegant gold trim.
  • I need to trim my hair.
  • The house looks great with the new window trim.
edging

Often used in gardening and landscaping to describe a border around a garden bed or pathway. It can also refer to finishing touches in sewing or clothing.

  • The garden looks more polished with the new stone edging.
  • She added lace edging to the hem of the dress.
frill

Used in fashion and design to describe a decorative ruffle or flounce, often added to clothing or accessories. It can sometimes have a negative connotation when referring to something considered excessive or unnecessary.

  • The dress had a beautiful frill around the neckline.
  • He thought the extra frills on the curtains were too much.

Examples of usage

  • She added a lace skirting to her dress for a more elegant look.
  • The skirting on the coat matched perfectly with the rest of the outfit.
Context #2 | Verb

construction

Putting a skirt on the bottom of something.

Synonyms

border, edge, surround.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
skirting

Used to describe something moving along the edge of an area without entering it directly, or addressing a topic without getting into details.

  • The road goes skirting along the coastline.
  • She was skirting around the main issue during the meeting.
border

Refers to the dividing line or the boundary surrounding a specific area, often used in geographical and territorial contexts.

  • The border between the two countries is heavily guarded.
  • They planted flowers along the border of their garden.
edge

Denotes the outermost part or boundary of an object or area, often implying a sharp line or limit.

  • She stood at the edge of the cliff, looking down.
  • The table has a sharp edge that could be dangerous.
surround

Signifies enclosing or being all around something, typically used when discussing environments or situations where something is encircled.

  • Tall trees surround the house, giving it a secluded feel.
  • The police have decided to surround the building.

Examples of usage

  • The carpenter is skirting the edge of the table with wood trim.
  • She skirting the garden beds with decorative stones.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'skirting' derives from the Old Norse word 'skyrta,' meaning shirt or garment, which relates to the fabric part of clothing.
  • In past centuries, 'skirting' referred specifically to the lower part of a dress or garment, highlighting the connection to fashion.
  • As language evolved, it took on broader meanings, including the idea of avoiding or going around something.

Geography

  • In navigation, skirting refers to the practice of sailing around difficult or dangerous coastlines rather than attempting to pass straight through.
  • Regions like the Outer Banks of North Carolina often have skirting coastal strategies to protect structures from storm damage.

Psychology

  • People often skirt around heavy emotional topics in conversations to avoid discomfort or conflict.
  • This behavior is sometimes a defense mechanism, helping individuals protect themselves from stress or anxiety.

Art & Literature

  • In literature, authors may use skirting as a technique to create suspense, hinting at deeper issues without revealing them outright.
  • Visual artists might use skirting themes in their work to explore hidden emotions or societal issues indirectly.

Fashion

  • Skirting in fashion refers to various styles of skirts, which can range from formal to casual, influencing cultural trends.
  • The way one styles a skirt can communicate different messages in terms of fashion identity and personal expression.

Translations

Translations of the word "skirting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rodapé

🇮🇳 किनारा

🇩🇪 Sockelleiste

🇮🇩 pinggiran

🇺🇦 плінтус

🇵🇱 listwa przypodłogowa

🇯🇵 巾木 (きんぼく)

🇫🇷 plinthe

🇪🇸 zócalo

🇹🇷 süpürgelik

🇰🇷 걸레받이

🇸🇦 لوح الحافة

🇨🇿 lišty

🇸🇰 lišty

🇨🇳 踢脚板

🇸🇮 letvica

🇮🇸 gólflisti

🇰🇿 плинтус

🇬🇪 ბურჯი

🇦🇿 plintus

🇲🇽 zócalo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,390, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.