How Do You Spell SHOE LEATHER?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈuː lˈɛðə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "shoe leather" may appear confusing at first glance. However, using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it becomes clear. The first word "shoe" is pronounced /ʃuː/, with the "sh" sound followed by the "oo" sound. The second word "leather" is pronounced /ˈlɛðər/, with the stress on the first syllable and the "th" sound followed by the "er" sound. Despite its peculiar spelling, "shoe leather" refers to the durable material commonly used in shoe manufacturing.

SHOE LEATHER Meaning and Definition

1. Shoe leather is a noun referring to the material, typically leather, used in making the outer covering of a shoe. It is commonly made from the hide or skin of animals, such as cows or goats. The term can also be used to describe footwear made of any other material, encompassing a wide range of both dress and casual shoes.

   Metaphorically, shoe leather can also be used to describe the physical act of walking or traveling by foot. This usage is often associated with a sense of endurance, effort, and hard work. For example, someone who spends a significant amount of time walking door-to-door for business purposes may be said to be "putting on the shoe leather."

   Additionally, in the context of investigative journalism, shoe leather represents the classic method of gathering information by physically going out into the field, conducting interviews, and observing events firsthand. This approach involves direct, in-person contact rather than relying solely on secondary sources or desk research.

   The term "shoe leather" can also be used idiomatically to refer to the cost or expense associated with extensive traveling or walking. For instance, a company that is frequently sending employees on business trips may have a sizable "shoe leather" budget to cover transportation, meals, and accommodations.

   Overall, shoe leather encompasses both the physical material used in making shoes and the figurative aspects related to walking or traveling on foot, as well as associated idioms.

2. Leather for shoes.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SHOE LEATHER

• ahoe leather
• zhoe leather
• xhoe leather
• dhoe leather
• ehoe leather
• whoe leather
• sgoe leather
• sboe leather
• snoe leather
• sjoe leather
• suoe leather
• syoe leather
• shie leather
• shke leather
• shle leather
• shpe leather
• sh0e leather
• sh9e leather
• show leather
• shoeleather

Etymology of SHOE LEATHER

The word "shoe" comes from the Old English word "sceōh", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "skōhaz". "Skōhaz" eventually evolved into the Middle English word "shoe". "Leather", on the other hand, originated from the Old English word "leðer", which shares a common ancestry with other Germanic languages such as the Old High German "ledar" and Old Norse "leðr". Over time, "leðer" transformed into the Middle English word "lether", and eventually became the modern English word "leather". When combined, "shoe leather" refers simply to the material used to make shoes.

Idioms with the word SHOE LEATHER

• be (as) tough as shoe leather The idiom "be (as) tough as shoe leather" means to be extremely resilient, strong, enduring, or resistant to hardship or difficulty. It implies that someone or something possesses great toughness and is able to withstand unfavorable situations or challenges without being greatly affected.
• (as) tough as shoe leather, at (as) tough as old boots The idiom "(as) tough as shoe leather, at (as) tough as old boots" refers to someone or something that is extremely resilient and rugged, able to withstand difficult conditions or challenges without being easily damaged or worn down. It suggests a person or object that is strong, durable, and able to endure hardships.

Similar spelling words for SHOE LEATHER

• sheltered,
• leather shoe.