Corset

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

UK: /ˈkɔːsɪt/ | US: /ˈkɔːrsɪt/

Definitions

1. (Noun) A tightly fitting undergarment, typically worn by women, that extends from the waist to the hips or chest, used to shape and support the body, particularly the torso.

2. (Noun) A garment that is stiffened or structured to alter or shape the figure, often worn for fashion or medical purposes.

Usage Examples

1. She wore a corset under her gown to achieve the fashionable, cinched waist look.

2. In the 19th century, corsets were worn to create an hourglass figure, sometimes leading to discomfort due to their tightness.

Etymology

The word "corset" comes from the Old French "corset," a diminutive form of "corps" (meaning body), which originally referred to a small or tight-fitting garment for the body. The corset became a popular garment in Europe during the 16th century and continued to evolve in design throughout the centuries.

Synonyms

Shapewear, girdle, bodice, corset dress, waist trainer

Antonyms

Loose-fitting, unshaped, free-flowing

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "corset" can vary slightly depending on the region. In the UK, the emphasis is generally placed on the first syllable, whereas, in the US, the pronunciation tends to stress the second syllable more heavily.

Historical Usage

The corset was a staple of women's fashion for centuries, particularly from the Renaissance period through to the early 20th century. It was used to shape the torso into an hourglass figure, which was considered a symbol of femininity and beauty. Over time, the design of corsets evolved to allow for more comfort, though they were still intended to alter the natural shape of the body. With the rise of the feminist movement and changing fashion ideals in the 20th century, corsets largely fell out of mainstream fashion, though they remain a significant part of fashion history.

Cultural Nuances

The corset has been a symbol of both elegance and oppression throughout history. While it was once considered a necessity for women’s fashion, it has also been criticized for its restrictive nature, which could lead to physical discomfort and health problems. Today, the corset is often viewed as a symbol of historical beauty standards, and modern versions of corsets are mainly worn for aesthetic purposes, such as in burlesque performances or vintage-style fashion.

More Information

The corset has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries, from a simple garment used to support the body, to an elaborate fashion item designed to achieve a specific silhouette. Its use peaked in the 19th century, when it was widely worn to achieve an exaggerated hourglass shape. During this time, corsets were often made of whale bone or steel and could be extremely tight, leading to health problems for many wearers. Today, the corset is mostly worn as a fashion item or as part of historical costume. The modern version of shapewear, such as waist trainers, is often seen as a descendant of the corset, though with more flexible and comfortable materials.