The term "all overs" refers to a technique in knitting where a pattern is repeated across an entire garment. The spelling is a bit confusing, but it can be broken down phonetically. The first syllable "all" is pronounced /ɔːl/, similar to the word "awl." The second syllable "overs" is pronounced /ˈəʊvəz/, rhyming with "clovers." Together, the pronunciation would be /ɔːl ˈəʊvəz/. While the spelling may be tricky, mastering this knitting technique allows for endless creative possibilities in design.
"All overs" is a phrase that originated in the realm of fashion and textiles, referring to a type of fabric pattern that covers the entirety of a given material's surface. It is typically characterized by a repeat pattern featuring motifs or designs that are evenly distributed throughout the fabric, sans any specific arrangement. The term highlights the uniformity of the pattern, which extends across the full expanse of the fabric without any breaks or interruptions.
This term is often used in discussions about textiles, particularly in describing the design or pattern of a fabric. It may be used to differentiate between all-over prints and those with specific arrangements or placements of motifs, such as stripes or checks. The phrase "all overs" emphasizes the consistent and extensive coverage of the pattern on the fabric, ensuring that it is visible from any angle or viewpoint.
Additionally, the phrase can also be employed beyond the realm of textiles to describe other situations where a consistent pattern or design is spread throughout a particular context, such as in artwork, architecture, or even behavior. In such cases, "all overs" refers to an encompassing and pervasive quality that is present and noticeable throughout the entirety of the subject being discussed.
The term "all-overs" has its etymology rooted in the combination of two separate words: "all" and "overs".
The word "all" dates back to Old English and is derived from the Germanic languages. It originally meant "the whole of", "entirely", or "completely". Over time, the meaning became more generalized, referring to everything, everyone, or every part of something.
The term "overs" comes from the Old English word "ofer", meaning "upper", "above", or "on top". It can also refer to something that extends or surpasses a certain limit or boundary.
When combined, "all-overs" takes on the meaning of total or complete apprehension, unease, or restlessness. It refers to a state of anxiety or nervousness that encompasses a person entirely or affects every part of them.