The word "gusset" is spelled with a soft "s" sound at the beginning, and a hard "t" sound at the end. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈɡʌsɛt/. The first sound /ɡ/ is pronounced as a voiced velar stop, while the second sound /ʌ/ is an open-mid back unrounded vowel. The third sound /s/ is voiceless alveolar sibilant, and the last sound /t/ is a voiceless alveolar stop. The word "gusset" refers to a triangular or diamond-shaped piece of material used to strengthen a seam or corner.
A gusset refers to a fabric insert, often triangular or diamond-shaped, used to reinforce or provide additional strength to a garment, accessory, or structural component. It is a structural element that is typically made of the same material as the main fabric it is sewn into or can be a contrasting fabric, depending on the desired aesthetic appeal.
Gussets are commonly employed in areas of a garment or any other textile item that experience high stress or strain, like the crotch area of pants, the underarms of shirts, or the corners of bags. By adding a gusset, designers and manufacturers aim to distribute the tension or force exerted on the fabric across a larger surface area, thereby reducing the risk of tearing, fraying, or ripping.
These fabric inserts can allow for greater ease of movement and increase the flexibility and durability of the item. They are often included in athletic wear, workwear, and other types of clothing where mobility and longevity are important considerations. Gussets may also be used in non-clothing applications, such as in the construction of tents, backpacks, or upholstery, where reinforcement is necessary at stress points.
Overall, gussets play a crucial role in enhancing the functionality and longevity of garments and other textile items by providing reinforcement and preventing excessive strain or wear in areas prone to stress.
A triangular piece of cloth put into a garment to enlarge or strengthen a part; in mech., an angular piece of iron to unite parts, or to give strength and stiffness to the angular parts of a structure.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "gusset" has an interesting etymology. It originated in Middle English as "guset" or "gusett", which was derived from Old French "gousset". The Old French term was a diminutive form of the word "gousse", meaning "pod" or "husk". It was used to describe a small piece of fabric or material that is used to strengthen or reinforce a garment, particularly at the places where stress or tension is likely to occur.
The association with a pod or husk likely stems from the fact that a gusset resembles a small triangular or diamond-shaped pouch, similar to a plant pod or husk. Over time, the word "gusset" came to be used specifically to refer to the triangular insertions in shirts, trousers, or socks, which help provide extra room or flexibility in those areas.