"Merry Widows" is a term used to describe a type of lingerie for women. The spelling of this word is not necessarily intuitive, as the "widows" part is not pronounced as one might expect. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /ˈmɛri ˈwɪdoʊz/, with the stress on the first syllable of both words. The "widows" part is pronounced with a long "i" sound rather than the expected short "i" sound, giving the word a distinct and memorable pronunciation.
The term "merry widows" is a colloquial expression that originally referred to widowed women who were perceived to be enjoying their newfound freedom and independence after the death of their husbands. However, the term has evolved over time and now primarily refers to a style of women's lingerie.
In the contemporary sense, merry widows are a type of intimate apparel or undergarment that combines elements of a corset or bustier with a bra. They are typically strapless and extend down to the waist, providing support and shaping for the bust and torso. Merry widows are often made from lace or satin materials, and may incorporate boning or underwire to enhance the figure.
The name "merry widow" is believed to have originated from the operetta "The Merry Widow" by Franz Lehár, which premiered in 1905. The female protagonist in the operetta wore a corset-like garment that resembled the modern-day merry widows, hence the association with the term.
Merry widows are often worn as lingerie or for special occasions, such as weddings or romantic evenings. They are designed to create a flattering silhouette, enhance the bust, and provide a seductive appeal. While they were traditionally associated with widows embracing their newfound freedom, the modern merry widow is more commonly associated with sensuality and femininity.
The term "merry widows" originally referred to a type of women's black underwear, specifically a type of corset or brassiere. The etymology of the word can be traced back to the mid-20th century when it was used to specifically describe a black-lace-trimmed, low-cut, strapless bra worn by women who were widowed during World War II. It is said that these women indulged in a newfound freedom and had a reputation for being bold and sensual, hence the term "merry widows". The word "merry" in this context suggests that these widows were living life merrily or enjoying themselves after the loss of their spouses. Over time, the term "merry widows" became associated with any black lingerie worn by women, often with a sense of allure and sexiness.