Washboard: meaning, definitions and examples
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washboard
[ ˈwɔːʃbɔːrd ]
laundry tool
A washboard is a flat, rectangular board, typically made of wood or metal, with raised ridges on one side. It is traditionally used in washing clothes by rubbing fabric against the ridged surface to create friction, which helps to remove dirt and stains. Washboards are considered a relic of earlier laundry techniques and are often associated with vintage or old-fashioned ways of cleaning clothes. While less common today due to modern washing machines, washboards can still be found in some households and are used by hobbyists or those seeking a more manual approach to laundry.
Synonyms
laundry board, scrubbing board.
Examples of usage
- She used a washboard to clean her clothes.
- The antique shop displayed a beautiful wooden washboard.
- During the camping trip, we had to wash our clothes on a washboard.
- He played the washboard as part of the folk music band.
Translations
Translations of the word "washboard" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tábua de lavar
🇮🇳 धुलाई बोर्ड
🇩🇪 Waschbrett
🇮🇩 papan cuci
🇺🇦 стиральна дошка
🇵🇱 deska do prania
🇯🇵 洗濯板
🇫🇷 planche à laver
🇪🇸 tablón de lavar
🇹🇷 yıkama tahtası
🇰🇷 세탁판
🇸🇦 لوحة غسيل
🇨🇿 prací deska
🇸🇰 pracie doska
🇨🇳 洗衣板
🇸🇮 pralna deska
🇮🇸 þvottabretti
🇰🇿 жууғыш тақта
🇬🇪 სარეცხი დაფა
🇦🇿 yumaq taxtası
🇲🇽 tabla de lavar
Etymology
The term 'washboard' is believed to have originated in the late 18th century. It is derived from the combination of 'wash' and 'board,' reflecting its primary function as a tool for washing clothes. Historically, washboards were indispensable household items, particularly in rural areas where people relied on manual methods for cleaning fabrics. The invention of the washboard allowed for more effective cleaning compared to hand washing alone, as the textured surface helped to dislodge dirt. Over time, as laundry technology evolved and washing machines became commonplace in the 20th century, the use of washboards diminished significantly. However, the washboard remains a symbol of traditional laundry practices and is sometimes used in folk music, showcasing its cultural significance beyond its practical application.