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Tights Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tights

[taɪts ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

clothing

Tights are a type of clothing item that covers the legs and sometimes the waist. They are typically made of a stretchy material such as nylon or lycra, and are worn by both men and women for warmth or as a fashion statement.

Synonyms

leggings, pantyhose, stockings.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tights

Usually refers to a close-fitting garment covering the legs, waist, and feet. Commonly worn by dancers, athletes, or under skirts/dresses in colder weather.

  • She wore a pair of black tights to keep warm under her dress during winter
leggings

Tight-fitting pants that are typically worn as casual or athletic wear. They do not cover the feet and are often made of stretchy material.

  • She prefers wearing leggings when she goes for a run because they are comfortable and flexible
stockings

Typically refers to garments that cover the legs and feet but do not extend to the waist. Often associated with formal or lingerie contexts, and can be held up with a garter belt.

  • She chose silk stockings to wear with her evening dress for a sophisticated look
pantyhose

A sheer, form-fitting garment that covers the legs, waist, and often the feet. Typically worn for formal occasions or professional settings for a smoother look under clothing.

  • She slipped into a pair of pantyhose to complete her professional outfit for the meeting

Examples of usage

  • She wore black tights with her dress.
  • He prefers to wear tights when practicing yoga.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Tights date back to the Middle Ages, often worn by men as layered leg coverings with tunics.
  • Initially called 'hose,' they were made from various materials, including wool, before modern fabrics took over.

Fashion Evolution

  • In the 1920s, tights became popular among women as they were seen as more fashionable than stockings.
  • The invention of nylon in the 1930s revolutionized women's fashion, making tights more affordable and accessible.

Cultural Significance

  • In ballet, tights are essential for dancers, allowing freedom of movement while showcasing leg lines.
  • Various cultures have their unique versions of leg coverings, from leggings in South Asia to tights in Western fashion.

Athletic Use

  • Compression tights are popular in sports, helping improve blood circulation and reduce muscle fatigue.
  • Athletes often wear tights for warmth and protection during outdoor activities in colder weather.

Pop Culture

  • Tights became iconic in the 1980s, often associated with workout videos and aerobics fashion.
  • Superheroes in comics and movies are frequently depicted wearing tights, influencing perceptions of strength and versatility.

Origin of 'tights'

The word 'tights' originated in the early 19th century as a term for close-fitting garments worn on the legs. It has evolved over time to specifically refer to the stretchy legwear we know today. The popularity of tights has grown in recent decades, with a wide variety of styles and colors available for both practical and fashion purposes.

See also: tight, tighten, tightener, tightening, tightfisted, tightly, tightness, uptight.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,769, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.