The correct spelling of the term used to hang clothing is "clothes hanger". The pronunciation of this term can be represented by its phonetic transcription in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as [kləʊðz ˈhæŋə]. The transcription shows that the initial sound is a voiceless velar fricative followed by a schwa sound. The second word starts with a voiced alveolar fricative, followed by a stressed first syllable and a short unstressed second syllable ending with a schwa sound.
A clothes hanger is a device used for hanging clothes, typically made of metal, wood, or plastic, and designed to keep garments neat, organized, and wrinkle-free. It consists of a horizontal bar with curved or angular ends that allow it to hold clothing securely without causing damage or deformation.
The primary purpose of a clothes hanger is to preserve the shape and condition of garments when they are not being worn. By suspending clothes from the bar, hangers help maintain their original form and prevent them from wrinkling or sagging. This makes clothes hangers an essential tool for storing and organizing clothing in closets, wardrobes, or garment racks.
Clothes hangers come in various shapes and designs to accommodate different clothing items. Standard hangers feature a curved design that matches the contours of the shoulders, ensuring that shirts, blouses, and jackets maintain their natural shape. Skirt hangers have clips or adjustable clamps that hold skirts or pants securely without leaving marks or creases. Specialized hangers also exist for specific clothing items such as suits, dresses, ties, and lingerie, offering tailored support to suit their particular requirements.
In addition to their functional uses, clothes hangers can also serve decorative purposes. Some hangers contain ornamental features, textured surfaces, or vibrant colors that allow them to add visual appeal and enhance the aesthetics of closet spaces.
Overall, clothes hangers are vital tools for storing, organizing, and preserving clothing, making them a staple item in households and commercial establishments alike.
The word "clothes hanger" has a relatively straightforward etymology.
The term "clothes" comes from the Middle English word "clothes" or "clothis" which ultimately derived from the Old English word "clāþas", meaning "cloths" or "garments".
The word "hanger" derives from the Middle English word "hangere" which referred to a hook or a hinged support on which something could be hung. The term can be traced back to the Old English word "hangestre", which meant "suspender" or "someone who hangs".
When these two words are combined, "clothes hanger" simply refers to an object or device that is used to hang and support clothes.