Crimped

Part of Speech

Adjective, Verb (Past Tense)

Pronunciation

/krɪmpt/

Definitions

• Adjective: Describing something that has been pressed, folded, or bent in a way that causes it to become wrinkled or uneven.
• Verb (Past Tense): The action of having crimped, or pressed and folded something tightly, typically causing it to be damaged or altered in shape.

Usage Examples

• The crimped edges of the paper were a sign that it had been hastily folded.
• His crimped shirt looked unprofessional for the meeting.
• She crimped the plastic before placing it on the machine.

Etymology

The word "crimped" is derived from the verb "crimp," which has roots in Middle English, originating from the Old English word "crimpan," meaning "to bend or curl." The past tense form has been used since the 16th century to describe something that has been pressed or folded.

Synonyms

• Wrinkled
• Folded
• Creased
• Pinched
• Bent

Antonyms

• Smooth
• Flattened
• Unfolded
• Pressed

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "crimped" remains largely consistent across different English-speaking regions. However, in some areas, the "r" sound may be softer or slightly rolled. In non-native English-speaking regions, local accents can lead to variations in the way the word is pronounced.

Historical Usage

The word "crimped" has been in use since the 16th century, initially describing the process of folding or curling something, particularly fabric. It was commonly used in textiles to describe patterns or textures created by pressing or bending materials. Over time, the meaning expanded to include both literal and figurative uses, especially when referring to things that were "restricted" or "hindered."

Cultural Nuances

In certain cultural contexts, the word "crimped" is associated with craftsmanship, especially in the textile industry. For example, crimped fabric is a staple of fashion and textile design, often used to give fabric texture. In culinary contexts, "crimped" refers to pinching dough to seal it, particularly in pastry making, and in slang, "crimped" can imply something is slightly damaged or less than perfect.

More Information

"Crimped" has a rich history in various industries, including textiles, food, and even military slang. In the modern era, the term is often used to describe anything that has been folded or altered in a way that leaves it uneven. In the context of food, "crimped" edges are commonly associated with pies and pastries, where the edges are pinched to seal them, creating a decorative and functional look. In fashion, crimped fabric has been a popular texture, especially in the 1980s and 1990s. The word also finds metaphorical use to describe anything that has been restricted or hindered in some way.