FARTHINGALE Meaning and
Definition
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A farthingale refers to a structural undergarment, primarily worn by women during the Renaissance and Elizabethan eras, to shape and expand the silhouette of the skirt. This term specifically refers to the framework worn underneath the skirt rather than the outer garment itself. It consists of a series of hoops or whalebone rings that are arranged in a cage-like fashion, with increasing size towards the bottom, thereby creating a dome-like shape for the skirt. This garment was an essential element in achieving the fashionable wide-hipped silhouette of the period.
Typically made from lightweight materials such as linen or whalebone, the farthingale was worn underneath a petticoat or skirt. It was secured around the waist or hips using ties or straps. The construction and size of a farthingale varied depending on the desired effect. Sometimes, multiple farthingales were worn on top of each other, creating even larger proportions. The farthingale not only enhanced the appearance of wealth and nobility but also provoked curiosity and interest among those who witnessed the extravagant fashion trend.
As fashion evolved, the farthingale gradually fell out of favor by the end of the 16th century, making way for different styles and structures. However, it remains an important piece of historical clothing that both reflects the fashion tastes of the time and underscores the extent to which people were willing to go to achieve a particular aesthetic.
Common Misspellings for FARTHINGALE
- darthingale
- carthingale
- varthingale
- garthingale
- tarthingale
- rarthingale
- fzrthingale
- fsrthingale
- fwrthingale
- fqrthingale
- faethingale
- fadthingale
- fafthingale
- fatthingale
- fa5thingale
- fa4thingale
- farrhingale
- farfhingale
- farghingale
Etymology of FARTHINGALE
The word "farthingale" has an interesting etymology that can be traced back to the late 16th century. It comes from the combination of two words: "farthing" and "gale".
"Farthing" is derived from the Middle English word "ferthyng", which means a small monetary unit. In the past, farthings were coins used in Britain and other countries, representing one-fourth of a penny.
The word "gale" has a different origin and is related to the Middle English word "gale", meaning a large, wide garment or skirt. It can further be traced back to the Old French word "galle", which is related to the Late Latin word "galla", meaning a long garment.
When these two words are combined, "farthingale" refers to a type of hoop skirt worn under women's clothing during the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Similar spelling word for FARTHINGALE
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