Unwearable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unwearable

[ʌnˈwɛərəbl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

clothing, comfort

The term 'unwearable' refers to items of clothing or accessories that cannot be worn due to issues such as fit, comfort, or style. These items may be too small, too large, or simply uncomfortable for the wearer. Unwearable pieces are often relegated to the back of the closet or discarded, as they serve no practical purpose in a wardrobe. They can also refer to fashion that is too avant-garde or impractical to be worn in everyday life.

Synonyms

impractical, uncomfortable, unsuitable.

Examples of usage

  • The dress was beautiful but ultimately unwearable for daily use.
  • She decided to get rid of the unwearable shoes that hurt her feet.
  • His art project included designs that were simply unwearable.
  • The outfit was a stunning example of fashion but deemed unwearable by critics.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Fashion Industry

  • Designers sometimes create unwearable pieces as a form of artistic expression, pushing the boundaries of fashion.
  • Fashion shows often feature unwearable designs to captivate audiences and spark conversations about the future of clothing.

Artistic Expression

  • In performance art, unwearable clothing can symbolize the rejection of conventional beauty standards or societal norms.
  • Artists like Yves Saint Laurent and Alexander McQueen have produced unwearable designs that challenge notions of fashion.

Technology and Innovation

  • Smart clothing, while aiming for practicality, can sometimes be unwearable due to bulky technology or awkward designs.
  • New materials in fashion can also lead to garments that are innovative but not practical for everyday wear.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, traditional garments can be considered unwearable in modern contexts, leading to debates about globalization versus cultural preservation.
  • Craftsmanship in certain societies produces garments that are too intricate for regular use, thereby becoming unwearable.

Origin of 'unwearable'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Unwearable' combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'wearable,' which comes from the Old English 'werian', meaning to carry or to wear.
  • This term has evolved from fashion discussions, highlighting the growing distinction between style and comfort in clothing.

The term 'unwearable' is constructed from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', and the word 'wearable', which is derived from the verb 'wear.' 'Wear' comes from Old English 'werian', meaning to carry or to wear. Wearable items refer to clothing or accessories that can be put on the body, typically in a functional manner. The combination of these elements gives rise to 'unwearable' in the late 20th century as fashion began to embrace radically innovative designs that challenged traditional notions of clothing. The term gained prominence as designers started to create pieces that were more about expression than practicality. Today, it is commonly used in discussions about fashion, comfort, and design innovation.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,421, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.