The phrase "bolt goods" refers to items sold by length, rather than by weight. The word "bolt" is pronounced /boʊlt/, with a long "o" sound and a silent "t." "Goods" is pronounced /ɡuːdz/, with a long "u" sound followed by a "dz" sound at the end. The spelling of this phrase may seem confusing, as "bolt" is spelled with a silent "t." However, it is important to remember that in English, pronunciation and spelling do not always match perfectly.
"Bolt goods" refers to a specific type of merchandise or goods that are sold in bulk or in large quantities. This term is commonly used in the retail, wholesale, and manufacturing industries.
When referring to bolt goods, it is important to understand that the word "bolt" does not imply the fastener, but rather refers to a measure of quantity. Historically, a bolt was a unit of measurement used in textiles, specifically for fabrics. It represented a length of cloth that was typically between 20 and 40 yards.
Over time, the term "bolt goods" has expanded its meaning beyond textiles and now encompasses a wide range of products sold in bulk. These may include fabrics, electrical components, hardware supplies, tools, or any other items that are usually measured or packaged in substantial quantities for commercial sale.
The purchase of bolt goods is often favored by retailers, manufacturers, or wholesalers, as it allows them to obtain products at a more affordable price per unit. This is due to economies of scale that arise from buying in larger quantities. Bolt goods are typically packaged in larger containers, such as bolts, rolls, bundles, or spools, to facilitate storage, transportation, and handling.
In summary, bolt goods are merchandise that are sold in large quantities, typically packaged in bulk, and often favored by businesses to take advantage of cost savings achieved through bulk purchasing.
The term "bolt goods" does not have a specific etymology as it is not a commonly used phrase or term. However, individually, the words "bolt" and "goods" have distinct origins:
1. Bolt:
- The word "bolt" primarily comes from the Old English word "bolt" which meant a short, stout arrow or javelin. Its origin can be traced back to the Old High German word "bolz" and Old Norse "bóltr", both signifying a tree trunk or beam.
- Over time, "bolt" began to be used more broadly to refer to a variety of fasteners, such as a metal pin used to secure doors or gates.
2. Goods:
- The word "goods" comes from the Old English word "gōd", which meant "property, belongings, possessions, merchandise".