Uppers: meaning, definitions and examples

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uppers

 

[ ˈʌpərz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

footwear parts

Uppers refer to the part of a shoe or boot that covers the top of the foot. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as leather, canvas, or synthetic fabrics, and are typically stitched to the sole. Uppers come in various styles and designs, influencing the overall look and feel of footwear.

Synonyms

covers, overlays, tops

Examples of usage

  • The shoes have stylish leather uppers.
  • She chose sneakers with mesh uppers for breathability.
  • The designer focused on creating colorful uppers to attract youth.

Word origin

The term 'uppers' originates from the word 'upper', which in the context of footwear refers to the upper portion of a shoe that sits above the sole. This word has been a part of the English language since the early 14th century. The notion of 'upper' initially described the part of an object that is higher or above another, and in shoemaking, it specifically delineates the section that covers the foot. As the craft of shoemaking evolved, so did the terminology associated with it, leading to the widespread adoption of 'uppers' to specifically refer to the upper components of various types of footwear. The usage continues to evolve with fashion trends and materials used in shoe design.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,632, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.