Soles Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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soles

[soสŠlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

footwear, anatomy

Soles are the undersides of footwear or the bottom part of the foot. They provide support and protection for feet and are crucial for walking and standing. In addition, the term can also refer to the base of certain objects, such as a shoe or a piece of furniture.

Synonyms

base, bottom, underside.

Examples of usage

  • My shoes have rubber soles for better traction.
  • He stepped on a sharp object, hurting the sole of his foot.
  • The soles of her shoes were worn out from all the walking.
  • He checked the soles of his shoes before entering the house.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • The design of shoe soles can significantly impact a personโ€™s posture and balance, as well as reduce the risk of falls.
  • Certain sole materials, like rubber, are designed to provide better traction, making walking on slippery surfaces safer.
  • Biomechanics research studies how the interaction between soles and surfaces affects the way we walk and run.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'sole' has been popularized in fashion shows, as new styles often highlight unique sole designs.
  • In movies, the 'lost sole' trope can symbolize a character's journey to find their path or direction in life.
  • Many popular songs use the word 'sole' in a metaphorical sense, often to explore themes of identity and belonging.

Art

  • Soles have been depicted in various forms of art, symbolizing humility and groundwork in many cultures.
  • Some contemporary artists use old or worn shoe soles in their sculptures to represent stories of struggle and resilience.
  • Shoe sole prints are employed in sand art to leave a trace of movement, illustrating the journey of the artist.

Origin of 'soles'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sole' comes from the Latin word 'sola,' which means 'the bottom of a shoe or foot.'
  • In Old English, the term 'sole' referred to both the sole of a foot and a shoe, showing the connection to our body.
  • In Italian, 'suola' means sole, which further emphasizes the shared roots of the word in various languages.

The word 'sole' comes from the Old English 'sลl,' meaning 'bottom of a shoe or foot.' This term has roots in the Latin 'sola', which translates to 'the bottom' or 'the sole.' The evolution of the word over time has seen it take on various forms in different languages, including 'solea' in Latin, which refers to the flat part of the foot. Its usage has remained consistent across centuries, maintaining the association with the bottom structure in various contexts. Today, 'sole' is widely used not only in footwear but also in anatomical references to the structure of the foot, illustrating its enduring significance in both physical and metaphorical contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,938, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.