"Crimples" is a word that refers to small folds or waves in hair or fabric. The word is pronounced /ˈkrɪmpəlz/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "crimp" part of the word is pronounced like "krimp", and the "-les" ending is pronounced like "uls". The spelling of "crimples" follows the typical English pattern of adding "-s" to a base word to make it plural. While not a commonly used word, it is occasionally used in descriptions of hairstyles and fabric textures.
Crimples, as a verb, is a term that refers to the action of causing something, especially a material like fabric or paper, to become creased or wrinkled in a pattern of small folds. The process of crimplement usually involves making repeated or irregular small folds or bending at various angles, resulting in a textured or uneven, wavy appearance.
In the context of textiles, the crimpled effect can be achieved through several methods, such as heat treatment, specialized machinery, or manual manipulation. Crimply fabrics often have a distinctive texture that can add depth and interest to clothing, upholstery, or accessories.
The term 'crimples' can also be used as a noun or an adjective. As a noun, it refers to the small folds or wrinkles formed in a material or fabric, resulting from the crimpling process. As an adjective, 'crimpled' describes the characteristic texture or appearance of a material that has been deliberately or naturally crimpled.
The word 'crimple' finds its origins in Middle English, from the Old English word 'crymplan,' meaning 'to clasp' or 'to curl.' Over time, its meaning has shifted to denote the action of creasing or wrinkling, particularly resulting in the formation of small folds or waves in a material.