girdle

¹gir·dle

noun \ˈgər-d^əl\

Definition of GIRDLE

1

: something that encircles or confines: as a : an article of dress encircling the body usually at the waist b : a woman's close-fitting undergarment often boned and usually elasticized that extends from the waist to below the hips c (1) : shoulder girdle (2) : pelvic girdle

2

: the edge of a brilliant that is grasped by the setting — see brilliant illustration

Examples of GIRDLE

1. <drew a handkerchief from the girdle around her waist and offered it to the knight as a token of affection>

Origin of GIRDLE

Middle English girdel, from Old English gyrdel; akin to Old High German gurtil girdle, Old English gyrdan to gird

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to GIRDLE

Synonyms: ceinture, cincture, cummerbund (also cumberbund), ²belt, sash, self-belt

Related Words: band, waistband; circle, loop, ribbon, ring; baldric, bandolier (or bandoleer), Sam Browne belt; cestus, obi

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Other Clothing Terms

babushka, brogue, bumbershoot, cravat, dishabille, furbelow, layette, raiment, spectator

Rhymes with GIRDLE

curdle, hurdle