Unitard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unitard
[ˈjuː.nɪ.tɑːrd ]
Definition
clothing
A unitard is a skin-tight one-piece garment with long legs and sometimes long sleeves, typically made of spandex or other stretchy material. It is commonly worn by dancers, gymnasts, and acrobats for performances or training.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unitard |
A tight-fitting one-piece garment that covers the torso and legs. Often used in performances or athletic contexts, such as dance or gymnastics.
|
| leotard |
A skintight one-piece garment that covers the torso but leaves the legs free. Frequently used in dance, ballet, gymnastics, and as practice wear for athletes.
|
| bodysuit |
A form-fitting garment that covers the torso and sometimes the arms and legs. It is commonly used in fashion, casual wear, and undergarments.
|
Examples of usage
- It's important for dancers to wear a unitard for rehearsals.
- She wore a black unitard for her acrobatics routine.
- The gymnast's unitard was decorated with sequins.
- Many performers choose to wear a unitard for its flexibility and comfort.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'unitard' originated in the 1960s, combining 'unit' and 'leotard' to describe a full-body costume.
- Unitards gained popularity in the 1970s during the fitness and dance craze, especially in aerobics classes.
Fashion
- They are often seen in performances like ballet, gymnastics, and modern dance, providing both support and flexibility.
- In the 1980s, unitards became a fashion statement, leading to colorful designs and prints influenced by pop culture.
Pop Culture
- Famous for their appearance in shows like 'Flashdance' and 'Fame,' unitards symbolized empowerment and freedom in movement.
- Superheroes in comics and movies often wear unitard-like costumes, emphasizing agility and strength.
Athletics
- Athletes wear unitards in various sports, such as wrestling and track, as they provide a streamlined silhouette and reduce drag.
- They come in various materials, including spandex and Lycra, ensuring comfort and ease of movement.
Fitness
- In fitness classes, unitards are praised for their ease of wear and ability to showcase proper body alignment during exercises.
- Many fitness brands produce specially designed unitards aimed at reducing sweat and enhancing breathability.
Origin of 'unitard'
The term 'unitard' is a blend of 'unit' and 'leotard'. The leotard, which originated in the late 19th century, is a close-fitting one-piece garment that covers the torso but leaves the legs free. As dance and performance arts evolved, the unitard emerged as a variation with long legs. It gained popularity in the 20th century as a versatile garment for dancers, gymnasts, and other performers, providing both freedom of movement and a sleek aesthetic.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #42,900, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.