KUMMERBUND Meaning and
Definition
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A kummerbund, also spelled cummerbund, is a traditional waist sash or belt worn by men as a part of formal attire. The word originated from the Hindi term "kamarband," which translates to "waist strap." Typically made of silk or satin material, a kummerbund is about six to eight inches wide and is worn around the waist, covering the area between the shirt and trousers.
At its core, a kummerbund serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Functionally, it is worn to hold the shirt in place, preventing it from billowing out when the wearer is seated or moving. Aesthetically, it adds an element of elegance and sophistication to tuxedos or black-tie outfits. Kummerbunds often feature pleats, which can vary in number, depth, and style, adding texture and visual interest to the overall look.
The proper way to wear a kummerbund is with the pleats facing upwards, as tradition dictates. Some believe that the pleats were meant to catch any food or drink spills, sparing the trousers from stains. However, this is more of a historical anecdote than a practical function in contemporary times.
Originating from the Indian subcontinent, the kummerbund was adopted by British military officers stationed in India during colonial times and later popularized in Western formal wear. Today, it remains a common accessory for formal events such as weddings, galas, and black-tie occasions.
Common Misspellings for KUMMERBUND
- jummerbund
- mummerbund
- lummerbund
- oummerbund
- iummerbund
- kymmerbund
- khmmerbund
- kjmmerbund
- kimmerbund
- k8mmerbund
- k7mmerbund
- kunmerbund
- kukmerbund
- kujmerbund
- kumnerbund
- kumkerbund
- kumjerbund
- kummwrbund
- kummsrbund
- kummdrbund
Etymology of KUMMERBUND
The word "kummerbund" originated from the Persian language, specifically from the word "kamarband" (کمربند). "Kamar" means "waist" and "band" means "band" or "belt". It was brought to the English language through the colonial era in India during the 17th century. The British, who were present in India at the time, adopted the word and introduced it to the English language, referencing the traditional waistbands worn by Indian men. Ultimately, it became associated with a specific type of formal waistband worn with tuxedos or dress suits.
