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Skirting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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?

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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?

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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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'skirting'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'skirting' originated from the Old English word 'scyrting,' which means a piece of cloth used to cover a skirt. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the decorative fabric strip attached to the bottom of various garments. The use of skirting in construction also developed from this original meaning, referring to the act of putting a skirt-like border on something for finishing or decorative purposes.

See also: outskirts, underskirt.

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.