Tresses: meaning, definitions and examples
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tresses
[ˈtrɛsɪz ]
Definitions
hairstyle
Tresses refer to long locks or strands of hair, typically styled or arranged in a decorative way. They can be braided, twisted, or left flowing loosely.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tresses |
Often used in poetic or literary contexts to describe long, beautiful hair.
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| locks |
Used to describe hair in a more elegant or archaic manner, especially when talking about a specific style or quality.
|
| strands |
Refers to individual pieces or thin sections of hair; used when talking about hair in smaller units or in a delicate context.
|
| hair |
A general term for the strands growing on a person's head; suitable for daily and casual conversation.
|
Examples of usage
- She wore her tresses in a beautiful braid.
- Her long tresses cascaded down her back.
- I admired the intricate tresses of the bride's hair.
rope or cord
Tresses can also refer to a long lock or plait of rope or cord, typically used for decoration or ornamental purposes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tresses |
Typically used in poetic or literary contexts to describe long and usually beautiful hair, especially that of a woman.
|
| plait |
Commonly used in British English to refer to a braid of hair or other flexible material. Suitable for everyday conversations about hairstyles.
|
| rope |
Refers to a thick, strong cord made of twisted fibers. It is used in a variety of heavy-duty contexts, such as climbing, tying, or lifting.
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| cord |
Refers to a thin, flexible string or rope. Often used for tying things together or for decorative purposes.
|
Examples of usage
- The curtains were tied back with tresses of gold rope.
- The princess's gown was adorned with tresses of pearls.
- He wrapped the gift with a tress of silk cord.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'tresses' comes from the Latin word 'trixa,' which means 'braid.'
- In Middle French, it was used as 'tresse,' which referred to a plait or braid of hair.
- The term has been in English usage since the 14th century, highlighting the historical significance of hair styling.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, the way hair is styled can signify social status, marital status, or cultural identity.
- In ancient Egypt, elaborate hairstyles were a sign of wealth and power, with nobles often adorning their tresses with gold and jewels.
- In many Indigenous cultures, long hair is seen as a symbol of strength, connection to heritage, and spirituality.
Literature
- In fairy tales, long tresses often symbolize beauty and enchantment, seen in characters like Rapunzel.
- Poets throughout history have often used hair descriptions to evoke feelings of romance and nostalgia in their works.
- Many classic novels portray characters' hair as an extension of their personality, often using it to highlight virtues or flaws.
Fashion
- Throughout history, hairstyles have evolved, with tresses often reflecting current fashion trends, from Victorian updos to modern bohemian waves.
- Hair salons offer specialized services dedicated to the styling of tresses, showcasing the importance of hair in contemporary beauty culture.
- Braiding has seen a resurgence in popularity among young women today, with various styles from fishbones to Dutch braids becoming fashion staples.
Psychology
- Studies show that individuals often judge others’ personalities based on their hairstyles, including the presence or absence of long tresses.
- For some, maintaining beautiful tresses can significantly boost self-esteem and body image.
- Hair can serve as a medium for self-expression, where people use changes in their hair to symbolize personal transformations.
Translations
Translations of the word "tresses" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tranças
🇮🇳 लटें
🇩🇪 Zöpfe
🇮🇩 kepang
🇺🇦 коси
🇵🇱 warkocze
🇯🇵 髪の三つ編み
🇫🇷 tresses
🇪🇸 trenzas
🇹🇷 örgüler
🇰🇷 땋은 머리
🇸🇦 ضفائر
🇨🇿 copánky
🇸🇰 vrkoče
🇨🇳 辫子
🇸🇮 kite
🇮🇸 fléttur
🇰🇿 бұрымдар
🇬🇪 წნულები
🇦🇿 örgülər
🇲🇽 trenzas