Lorgnons, pronounced /lɔːˈnjɒns/, are stylish eyeglasses that have a handle instead of the arms that go behind the ears. The word comes from the French word "lorgner," which means "to squint" or "to look askance." The spelling of this unusual word can be explained by breaking it down phonetically. The first syllable is pronounced as 'lor' with the vowel sound 'ɔː', the second syllable is 'gnon' with the silent 'g' and the vowel sound 'ɒ', and finally, the last syllable is pronounced as 'ons' with the vowel sound 'ɒ'.
Lorgnons refer to a type of eyeglasses or spectacles that are held in front of the eyes by a handle or a rod rather than being worn on the face. They are typically designed with a small handle that is connected to two circular lenses which are held up to the eyes when needed. The purpose of lorgnons is to aid vision, particularly in situations where one desires a closer and clearer look.
Historically, lorgnons gained popularity in the late 18th and early 19th centuries and were usually made of materials such as gold or silver, giving them an elegant and stylish appearance. They were considered a fashionable accessory during this time and were commonly used by individuals, especially those from aristocratic or high-class backgrounds.
Lorgnons were also a means of communication in the past, as individuals could use them to make discreet gestures or signals to others without using words. This practice was particularly prevalent during social gatherings or in crowded spaces, where subtly conveying messages through non-verbal means was advantageous.
While lorgnons have become less common in contemporary times due to the advancements in eyewear technology, they remain popular among those who appreciate the vintage or antique aesthetic. Lorgnons are valued by collectors and can occasionally be seen as a fashion statement, bringing an element of nostalgia and sophistication to an individual's appearance.
The word "lorgnons" is derived from the French term "lorgnon", which dates back to the 18th century. The term itself comes from the verb "lorgner", meaning "to peer" or "to squint". Lorgnons are a type of spectacles or eyeglasses with a handle or spring that holds them in place, allowing the wearer to hold them up to their eyes or rest them on their nose while appearing elegant and sophisticated. The popularity of lorgnons peaked in the 19th century as a fashionable accessory, primarily used by women.