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Stilettos Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stilettos

[stษชหˆletษ™สŠz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fashion

High-heeled shoes with a thin, pointed heel, typically worn by women.

Synonyms

heels, high heels, pumps.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stilettos

Typically used to describe very high heeled shoes with a thin, sharp heel. Often associated with formal events or fashion-forward outfits.

  • She wore a pair of stunning red stilettos to the evening gala
high heels

Specifically describes shoes where the heel is particularly high. Often used in formal or dressy scenarios.

  • For the wedding, she chose black high heels that matched her dress
pumps

Refers to high-heeled shoes that are typically closed-toe and do not have laces or straps. Often worn in professional or formal settings.

  • She slipped into her favorite black pumps for the job interview
heels

A general term for any shoes that have a raised heel. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • She prefers wearing heels to flats because they make her feel more confident

Examples of usage

  • She strutted into the party wearing a pair of stilettos.
  • The model tripped on her stilettos during the fashion show.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion History

  • High-heeled shoes date back to the 10th century, initially worn by Persian cavalry to secure their feet in stirrups.
  • Stilettos became iconic in Western fashion after designers like Christian Dior popularized them in the mid-20th century.

Cultural Impact

  • Stilettos often symbolize femininity and empowerment, commonly featured in media portraying strong women.
  • In popular culture, stiletto heels are often associated with glamour, runway shows, and high-fashion events.

Health and Psychology

  • Wearing stilettos can alter a person's posture and gait, often causing discomfort or potential long-term foot problems.
  • Despite their challenges, many feel a boost in confidence and self-esteem when wearing stylish high heels.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Sex and the City' showcase stilettos as symbols of style and sophistication.
  • Many music videos feature artists wearing stilettos, using them as a powerful statement about confidence and femininity.

Origin of 'stilettos'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'stiletto' comes from the Italian word for a small dagger known for its slender blade.
  • The association with shoes developed in the 1950s, as styles evolved to include high heels resembling the pointed form of the dagger.

The term 'stilettos' originated in the 1930s and is derived from the Italian word 'stiletto', which means a small dagger. The design of stiletto heels resembles the sharp, slender blade of a dagger, giving the shoes their name. Stilettos have become a popular fashion choice for women looking to add height and elegance to their outfits.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,793, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.