Tailor: meaning, definitions and examples

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tailor

[ˈteɪlər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

clothing

A person whose occupation is making fitted clothes such as suits, pants, and jackets to fit an individual's unique body measurements.

Synonyms

couturier, dressmaker, seamstress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tailor	Used for someone who makes or alters clothes to fit individuals, often men's clothing like suits. Focuses on custom fitting. He went to a tailor to get a suit custom-fitted for the wedding
seamstress	Describes a woman who sews clothing, either making or repairing them. Can refer to general sewing work and isn't limited to custom-fitting. The seamstress fixed the tear in his jacket quickly
dressmaker	Typically used for someone who makes custom dresses, often for women. Less formal than 'couturier' and generally not associated with high fashion. She hired a dressmaker to create a unique gown for the gala
couturier	Refers to a designer or maker of high-fashion, often working for luxury brands. The term is associated with exclusive, high-end fashion design. The couturier revealed their latest collection at Paris Fashion Week

Examples of usage

The tailor took precise measurements to ensure the suit fit perfectly.
She visited the tailor to have her dress altered for the special occasion.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

modify

To make or adapt something to suit a particular need or to fit a specific purpose.

Synonyms

adapt, adjust, customize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tailor	Typically used when creating or altering something specifically to fit particular needs or requirements. The software was tailored to meet the needs of large businesses. She had her dress tailored for the special occasion.
customize	Used when modifying something to suit individual preferences or specifications. You can customize your phone's settings. They offer customized training programs for different skill levels.
adjust	Often used when making small changes to improve comfort, accuracy, or effectiveness. You can adjust the brightness of your screen. He adjusted his tie before the interview.
adapt	Used when changing something so it can function better in a new situation or environment. They adapted the novel into a successful movie. It's important to adapt to new technologies in the workplace.

Examples of usage

He tailored his presentation to the interests of the audience.
The program can be tailored to meet individual requirements.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'tailor' comes from the Old French word 'taillour', which means 'to cut', highlighting the cutting of fabric involved in making clothes.
In Middle English, tailors were often referred to as 'taylor', reflecting their important role in fashion.
The craft’s name has roots that can be traced back to Latin 'taliare', meaning 'to cut'.

Historical Origins

Tailoring as a profession dates back to ancient civilizations where garments were hand-crafted to meet climate and cultural needs.
During the Renaissance, tailors became esteemed members of society in Europe, often involved in both fashion and politics.
Guilds were established in medieval times to consolidate the skills and standards of tailors, reflecting the craft's importance.

Pop Culture

Tailors have appeared in many films and television shows, often portrayed as meticulous and skilled artisans.
The classic fairy tale of ‘Cinderella’ features a tailor who makes the beautiful gown, turning it into a cultural symbol of transformation.
The character 'Edward Scissorhands', although fictional, represents the idea of a tailor with a creative twist, scissor-wielding abilities.

Science

Tailoring techniques involve a deep understanding of fabric behavior, which combines elements of art and science.
The study of textiles includes the properties of materials, their draping qualities, and how they react to movement and wear.
Modern advancements in technology have introduced computer-aided design (CAD) in tailoring, helping to create precise patterns.

Psychology

Wearing well-tailored clothes can boost confidence and influence self-perception, according to psychological research.
People often associate tailored clothing with success and professionalism, which can affect social interactions and opportunities.
The act of customizing clothing can also promote a sense of individuality and expression, enhancing personal identity.

Translations

Translations of the word "tailor" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alfaiate

🇮🇳 दर्जी

🇩🇪 Schneider

🇮🇩 penjahit

🇺🇦 кравець

🇵🇱 krawiec

🇯🇵 仕立て屋

🇫🇷 tailleur

🇪🇸 sastre

🇹🇷 terzi

🇰🇷 재단사

🇸🇦 خياط

🇨🇿 krejčí

🇸🇰 krajčír

🇨🇳 裁缝

🇸🇮 krojač

🇮🇸 klæðskeri

🇰🇿 тігінші

🇬🇪 მკერავი

🇦🇿 dərzi

🇲🇽 sastre

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,571, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
10568 overlying
10569 forwards
10570 thorax
10571 tailor
10572 archbishop
10573 censorship
10574 directional
...