Waistline Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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waistline
[หweษชstlaษชn ]
Definition
body measurement
The waistline refers to the measurement around the narrowest part of a person's torso, typically just above the hips. It is an important indicator of body shape and health, as it can correlate with risks for various health issues. In fashion, a well-defined waistline often emphasizes an hourglass silhouette, which is considered attractive in many cultures. Individuals frequently monitor their waistline for weight management or fitness goals.
Synonyms
belly, girth, midsection, torso.
Examples of usage
- She measured her waistline to track her fitness progress.
- A defined waistline can enhance a person's appearance.
- Wearing high-waisted pants can accentuate your waistline.
- Doctors often advise keeping the waistline below a certain measurement for health.
- Her waistline was more pronounced after her recent workouts.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health and Fitness
- Many health professionals consider waistline measurements crucial for assessing an individual's health risks, especially regarding heart disease.
- A larger waistline has been linked to various health issues, including diabetes and high blood pressure, illustrating body fat distribution's importance.
Fashion
- In the fashion industry, a defined waistline is often celebrated in women's clothing, as it can enhance body shape and silhouette.
- Historical shifts in fashion have seen waistlines rise and fallโfrom the high waists of the Regency era to the low-rise designs of the early 2000s.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have various ideals regarding waistlines, often influenced by historical beauty standards and body image trends.
- In some cultures, a wider waistline is traditionally associated with prosperity and health, showcasing diversity in body ideals worldwide.
Literature
- Notable works of literature have referenced the concept of waistlines as metaphors for beauty, desirability, and societal expectations.
- In poetry, waistlines can symbolize personal struggles with body image, reflecting the complex relationship individuals have with their bodies.
Origin of 'waistline'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'waist' comes from the Old English word 'waep', referring to a part of the body that narrows.
- The word 'line' added to 'waist' signifies a point of measurement, first appearing in English in the early 19th century.
The term 'waistline' first emerged in the English language in the early 19th century. The word 'waist' has origins dating back to the Old English 'waist' which referred to the part of the body just above the hips, conveying a sense of centrality in the human figure. As fashion evolved through the years, especially in relation to women's clothing, the waistline began to be defined more precisely in both a literal physical sense and a fashion sense. The 'line' suffix indicates that it is a measurement or a boundary, further emphasizing its relevance in tailoring and garment design. By the late 19th century, the waistline became a significant aspect of fashion trends, impacting styles of dresses and menswear. Today, it is commonly analyzed in the context of health and wellness, as waist circumference has been shown to correlate with body fat distribution and later health risks.