Sole Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sole
[səʊl ]
Definitions
footwear
The underside of a person's foot.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sole |
Use when referring to the bottom part of a shoe or foot.
|
| bottom |
Use when referring to the lowest part of something, including objects, locations, and even levels or rankings.
|
| underside |
Use when talking about the lower or hidden surface of an object.
|
| base |
Use when talking about the bottom part of a physical structure or the main ingredient in a recipe.
|
Examples of usage
- She felt the cold tile beneath the sole of her foot.
- The shoe had a thick rubber sole for extra comfort.
legal
A single payment made for a specific purpose.
Synonyms
exclusive, individual, single.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sole |
Used to emphasize that something is the only one; often used in formal or legal contexts.
|
| single |
Emphasizes that there is only one of something, without any others; can be used in a variety of general situations.
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| exclusive |
Usually refers to something that is not shared with others; often used with high-end, luxury, or members-only contexts.
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| individual |
Focuses on being separate or distinct from others; often referenced in contexts involving personal characteristics or discrete units.
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Examples of usage
- He received a large sum of money as a sole compensation for his injuries.
- The company agreed to pay her a sole settlement for the copyright infringement.
only
Being the only one; single and isolated from others.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sole |
Use 'sole' when describing something that is the only one of its kind or when emphasizing the exclusivity of one person or thing in a context. It is often used in legal or formal situations.
|
| only |
Use 'only' to indicate that there is no one or nothing else except the person or thing mentioned. It is the most general and commonly used among these options.
|
| unique |
Use 'unique' to describe something that is one of a kind or very special in some way. It often highlights the rare or unusual quality of something or someone.
|
| exclusive |
Use 'exclusive' when mentioning something that is limited to a particular group or person and not shared with others. It often implies privilege or rare access.
|
Examples of usage
- He was the sole survivor of the plane crash.
- She had sole custody of her children after the divorce.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, shoes symbolize one's journey; the condition of the soles tells stories of travels and experiences.
- The expression 'walk a mile in someone else's shoes' conveys the importance of understanding another person's experiences through their journey.
Science
- The human foot has an intricate design, with the sole housing many bones and muscles that help with balance and mobility.
- Soles are made from various materials like rubber, leather, and foam to provide different levels of support and comfort.
Fashion
- Shoe soles come in various styles, including flat, heeled, or platform, each serving different purposes and styles.
- The design of the sole can reflect fashion trends, from minimalist styles to bold, colorful patterns that make a statement.
Psychology
- Many people believe that the type of shoes they wear reflects their personality and influences their confidence levels.
- Footwear choices can impact how others perceive us, making soles a subtle communicator of social cues.
Origin of 'sole'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sole' comes from the Latin word 'solea,' which means sandal or shoe.
- In Old French, the term 'sole' referred to the underside of a shoe, and it has evolved to be widely recognized in English.
The word 'sole' originated in the late Middle English period, derived from the Old French word 'soul', meaning 'bottom of the foot'. It has been used in various contexts over the centuries, evolving to represent not only the underside of the foot but also a single payment or exclusive ownership. The versatility of 'sole' as a word reflects its adaptability in different fields, from footwear to legal terminology.