Tuxedo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tuxedo
[tʌkˈsiː.doʊ ]
Definition
formal attire
A tuxedo is a formal suit characterized by a black or midnight blue jacket with satin or grosgrain lapels, usually worn with matching trousers. Traditionally, it is accompanied by a white dress shirt and a bow tie. Tuxedos are typically tailored and are considered appropriate for black-tie events, such as weddings, galas, and certain formal gatherings. They represent elegance and sophistication in men's fashion.
Synonyms
black tie, dinner jacket, evening suit.
Examples of usage
- He wore a tuxedo to the wedding.
- The guests were dressed in tuxedos for the gala.
- At the ceremony, everyone looked sharp in tuxedos.
- He rented a tuxedo for the prom night.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Fashion History
- The first known use of a tuxedo was in 1865, when it was created for a man named Griswold Lorillard to wear to a dinner.
- A tuxedo traditionally features satin lapels and is paired with a cummerbund or a bow tie.
- By the early 20th century, the tuxedo became a staple for formal events like balls and award ceremonies.
Cultural Significance
- Tuxedos are symbolic of elegance and are commonly worn at prestigious events like the Academy Awards.
- The style is often associated with sophistication and has been popularized in film, particularly by characters like James Bond.
- Celebrities often choose bespoke tuxedos from famous designers to make a fashion statement on the red carpet.
Pop Culture
- The tuxedo has made memorable appearances in films, with iconic scenes including tuxedo-clad characters during dance sequences or ceremonies.
- Popular music artists have referenced tuxedos in their lyrics and music videos, showcasing it as a symbol of glamour.
- In cartoons and comics, characters wearing tuxedos often signify a cultured or wealthy personality.
Modern Variations
- There are variations of tuxedos today, including color options like navy and white, appealing to modern fashion tastes.
- Informal versions of tuxedos, known as 'tuxedo tees,' have emerged, combining tuxedo graphics with casual wear.
- The tuxedo's evolution continues, with designers experimenting with fabric and cuts, incorporating technology into formal wear.
Origin of 'tuxedo'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'tuxedo' originated from Tuxedo Park, a resort in New York, where this style of suit became fashionable in the late 19th century.
- Earlier, the tuxedo was called a 'dinner jacket' or 'black tie' suit, as it became popular for dinner parties.
- The word 'tuxedo' may be derived from the Powhatan Native American word 'tusie,' meaning 'a place to sit.'
The term 'tuxedo' originated from Tuxedo Park, a resort in New York, where the style was first worn by the elite in the 19th century. The first known use of the word in reference to this style of men's formal wear dates back to the late 1800s, around the 1880s. The tuxedo evolved from the smoking jacket, which was worn by men during informal evening gatherings. Initially, it was designed to provide a less formal alternative to the frock coat that was customary for evening wear at the time. Over the years, the tuxedo has undergone changes in design and has gained status as a quintessential piece of men's formal attire. It became increasingly popular in the 20th century, particularly for formal events such as weddings and award ceremonies. Today, the tuxedo is considered a staple in the wardrobe of any man attending a formal event.