Collar

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

English (US): /ˈkɑː.lɚ/

English (UK): /ˈkɒ.lə/

Definitions

1. (Noun) A band of material around the neck of a garment.
2. (Noun) A restraining or identifying band worn around the neck by an animal, often with a tag.
3. (Noun) A part of a piece of machinery that encircles and supports another part.
4. (Verb) To seize or apprehend someone, especially by grabbing their collar.
5. (Verb) To detain or engage someone in conversation forcefully.

Usage Examples

• He adjusted the collar of his shirt before entering the meeting.
• The dog’s collar had a name tag with its owner’s contact details.
• The mechanic replaced the collar on the pipe fitting.
• The police collared the suspect outside the bank.
• She was collared by a reporter and had to answer a series of questions.

Etymology

From Old French coler (neckband), derived from Latin collāre, from collum (neck).

Synonyms

• Neckband
• Choker
• Yoke
• Clamp
• Restraint

Antonyms

• Open-neck
• Free
• Loose

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

North American: /ˈkɑː.lɚ/

British: /ˈkɒ.lə/

Australian: /ˈkɒ.lə/

Indian English: /ˈkɑː.lər/

Historical Usage

The word collar has been used since medieval times, originally referring to ornamental or functional neckbands worn by people and animals. Over time, it extended to include mechanical and symbolic meanings.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, different types of collars carry specific meanings. For example, clerical collars signify religious affiliation, while stiff white collars historically represented upper-class professionals.

More Information

The concept of the collar extends beyond clothing and accessories. The term is commonly used in finance (e.g., "white-collar jobs"), in animal care, and even in law enforcement (e.g., "collaring a criminal"). The word continues to evolve in modern language.