Stilettoes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stilettoes

[stษชหˆletษ™สŠz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fashion shoes

Stilettoes are high-heeled shoes with a thin, pointed heel. They are often considered a symbol of femininity and elegance.

Synonyms

high heels, pumps, stilettos.

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Word Description / Examples
stilettoes

Use this word when referring to high-heeled shoes with a very thin heel, often worn for formal events or nights out.

  • She wore stilettoes to the gala.
  • Stilettoes can make a simple outfit look elegant.
high heels

This is a general term for any shoes with elevated heels, suitable for various occasions ranging from work to parties.

  • She prefers to wear high heels to the office.
  • High heels can be quite uncomfortable after a long day.
pumps

Commonly refers to slip-on high-heeled shoes, often with a closed toe. They are versatile and can be used for both formal and business settings.

  • Black pumps are a must-have in any woman's wardrobe.
  • She wore elegant pumps to the job interview.
stilettos

Another spelling for 'stilettoes', used interchangeably. Best used in the same contexts as 'stilettoes'.

  • Her red stilettos caught everyone's attention.
  • Wearing stilettos all night can be quite a challenge.

Examples of usage

  • They wore stilettoes to the red carpet event.
  • She loves wearing stilettoes with her evening gown.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion History

  • The 1950s saw icons like Marilyn Monroe showcasing stilettos, influencing their transformation into symbols of glamour.
  • In the 1970s and 80s, popular culture embraced stilettos, often associated with powerful female figures and the rise of corporate fashion.

Cultural Impact

  • Stilettos are often seen as empowering, associated with confidence and sophistication, and they appear frequently in music and film.
  • Movies like 'Sex and the City' and shows like 'America's Next Top Model' helped cement the stilettoโ€™s place in modern fashion culture.

Psychology of Fashion

  • Wearing stilettos can affect posture and movement, often making the wearer appear more assertive and confident.
  • Studies show that women wearing high heels are often perceived as more attractive and competent in professional settings.

Safety and Health

  • Despite their stylish allure, wearing stilettos can lead to foot pain and health issues, prompting many designers to create more comfortable options.
  • Some podiatrists advise alternating heel heights to mitigate health risks associated with prolonged wear of high heels.

Origin of 'stilettoes'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Italian term 'stiletto', meaning a small dagger, referring to the shoe's slender shape resembling the blade.
  • Stilletto heels were first popularized in fashion during the 1950s, known for adding elegance to women's outfits.

The term stilettoes originated from the Italian word 'stiletto', which means a short dagger with a tapering blade. It was first used in the fashion industry in the mid-20th century to describe high-heeled shoes with a thin, pointed heel. Stilettoes quickly became popular due to their association with femininity and sophistication.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,656, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.