Stocking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งฆ
stocking
[หstษห.kษชล ]
Definitions
clothing
A close-fitting, usually knitted covering for the foot and leg, often made of nylon or cotton.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stocking |
This term is typically used to refer to women's long socks that cover the leg up to the thigh or knee, often worn for fashion or formal occasions.
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| sock |
A general term used for a knitted or woven covering for the foot, reaching up to the ankle or calf. Suitable for casual, everyday wear.
|
| hosiery |
This is a broad term that refers to all types of knitted or woven coverings for the legs and feet, including socks, stockings, and tights. Often used in formal or commercial contexts.
|
| nylons |
Commonly used to refer to sheer, stretchy stockings or pantyhose made of nylon material. It often implies women's legwear that is thin and transparent.
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Examples of usage
- She hung her stocking by the fireplace on Christmas Eve.
- She wore a pair of warm wool stockings during the winter months.
Christmas
A long sock that is hung up by children on Christmas Eve for Santa Claus to fill with presents.
Synonyms
Christmas stocking, gift sock, santa sock.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stocking |
As a synonym to 'Christmas stocking,' it refers to the decorative sock for gifts, mainly used in holiday context.
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| Christmas stocking |
Specifically refers to the decorative sock hung by the fireplace or on a mantel during the Christmas season to be filled with gifts.
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| santa sock |
Another informal term for a Christmas stocking, emphasizing the association with Santa Claus.
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| gift sock |
A less common and informal term for a Christmas stocking. It refers to a sock used to hold gifts, typically during the holiday season.
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Examples of usage
- The children eagerly hung up their stockings before going to bed on Christmas Eve.
- The tradition of hanging stockings by the fireplace dates back to the 19th century.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Significance
- In medieval times, stockings were worn by both men and women but were often more decorative for women.
- The introduction of knitting machines in the 19th century allowed for mass production, making stockings widely accessible.
- During World War II, nylon stockings became a symbol of luxury and femininity, despite fabric shortages.
Cultural References
- Stockings are often associated with holiday traditions in many cultures, particularly hung by the fireplace for Santa Claus to fill.
- In fashion, stockings continue to evoke elegance and are a common attire in formal settings, especially for women.
- The image of a 'stockinged leg' has been popularized in films, often symbolizing glamour and allure.
Science & Material
- Modern stockings are often made from materials like nylon, spandex, or a blend, allowing for better stretch and comfort.
- Compression stockings are specially designed to reduce swelling and improve blood circulation, particularly for those with medical conditions.
- The development of seamless stockings in the late 20th century revolutionized comfort and fit for wearers.
Fashion Trends
- In the 1920s, stockings became shorter as womenโs fashion changed to flapper styles, showing off more leg.
- Leggings, which are similar but tighter than traditional stockings, have gained popularity in recent years as casual wear.
- Stockings can be both a fashion statement and a functional item, sometimes featuring patterns or colors that make them stand out.
Origin of 'stocking'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'stocking' comes from the Middle English term 'stockyn' which sprang from Old English 'stoc,' meaning 'a covering for the foot.'
- Originally, stockings were handmade from wool or silk and were often tightly woven for durability.
- The modern term started evolving in the 16th century when hemlines began to rise and stockings became more popular.
The term 'stocking' dates back to the late Middle English period, derived from the Old English 'stocu' meaning a stocking. Stockings were originally made of cloth or leather and were tied around the leg. Over time, they evolved into the knitted coverings we are familiar with today. The tradition of hanging stockings by the fireplace on Christmas Eve is believed to have originated in the 19th century in Europe.
See also: restock, restocking, stock, stocked, stockholder, stockings, stockpile, stockpiling, stockroom, stocks, stocky.