Unclothe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unclothe

[ʌnˈkləʊð ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

without clothes

To remove clothing from someone or oneself.

Synonyms

disrobe, strip, undress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unclothe	Used in formal or literary settings to describe the act of removing clothes. The artist asked the model to unclothe for the painting. In the story, the hero had to unclothe before entering the sacred spring.
undress	Commonly used in everyday situations to describe the act of removing one's clothes, typically in a neutral manner. It's time to undress and get ready for bed. The children undressed quickly after playing in the rain.
strip	Used informally or colloquially, often with a more casual or negative connotation, implying a more forceful or rapid removal of clothes. They dared him to strip down to his underwear. The thief was ordered to strip by the robbers.
disrobe	Often used in formal or medical contexts, where the act of removing clothes is done in a deliberate and respectful manner. The patient was asked to disrobe for the examination. During the ceremony, the individuals disrobed to symbolize purity.

Examples of usage

He unclothed himself before entering the shower.
The doctor asked the patient to unclothe for the examination.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

In various cultures, unclothing can have significant meanings, such as freedom or vulnerability, depending on the context.
Many traditional rituals involve the act of unclothing as a way to symbolize new beginnings or purification.
Fashion trends often push the boundaries of unclothing, exploring themes of exposure and body positivity.

Psychology

The act of unclothing may evoke feelings of vulnerability or empowerment, and can have psychological impacts based on social and cultural contexts.
Body image perception plays a significant role in how individuals feel about unclothing themselves in various settings.
Unclothing in a safe environment, such as at home, can lead to increased comfort with one's own body.

Literature

Unclothing often symbolizes emotional exposure in literature, representing a character's desire to reveal their true self.
In poetry, the act can be a metaphor for shedding past experiences or societal constraints.
Famous works have used unclothing as a narrative device to explore themes of identity and self-acceptance.

Art

Artistic representations of unclothing can challenge societal norms and invite discussions on body image and freedom.
Famous painters like Gustav Klimt have captured themes of unclothing to explore intimacy and the human form.
Performance art often uses unclothing as a medium to convey messages about vulnerability and the human experience.

Origin of 'unclothe'

Main points about word origin

The term 'unclothe' is formed by adding the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'to do the opposite of' to the root word 'clothe.'
The word 'clothe' itself comes from the Old English 'clāþian,' which means to cover or dress.
The combination reflects a process—where 'clothe' implies putting on while 'unclothe' indicates taking off.

The word 'unclothe' originated from Middle English 'unclothen', which is a combination of 'un-' and 'clothe'. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century. The prefix 'un-' indicates a reversal or removal of the action, in this case, removing clothing.