STAYMAKER Meaning and
Definition
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Staymaker is a noun that refers to a person who specializes in making or repairing stays. Stays are a type of corset-like undergarment primarily worn by women in the past to shape and support the torso. The staymaker is typically skilled in constructing stays that are both fashionable and functional, ensuring proper fit and comfort.
The term "staymaker" originates from the historical practice of staymaking, which was a crucial art and trade in the tailoring industry. Staymakers were highly sought after and played an essential role in women's fashion during eras such as the 18th and 19th centuries when stays were widely worn.
In addition to constructing stays, staymakers were also responsible for altering and repairing these garments. They possessed intricate knowledge of the various materials and techniques required to create stays with whalebone or steel boning, lacing, and other supporting elements that provided the desired shape and tightness.
Today, while stays are no longer commonly worn, the term "staymaker" can occasionally be used in historical or period contexts, such as in theater or costume design. Despite its limited contemporary usage, the term still carries historical significance, as staymakers represent an important craft and expertise that contributed to the shaping of women's clothing and body ideals in the past.
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One whose occupation is to make stays.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for STAYMAKER
- ataymaker
- ztaymaker
- xtaymaker
- dtaymaker
- etaymaker
- wtaymaker
- sraymaker
- sfaymaker
- sgaymaker
- syaymaker
- s6aymaker
- s5aymaker
- stzymaker
- stsymaker
- stwymaker
- stqymaker
- statmaker
- stagmaker
- stahmaker
- staumaker
Etymology of STAYMAKER
The word "Staymaker" is derived from two separate words: "stay" and "maker".
The term "stay" originally referred to a stiffened support garment worn by women to shape and support their torso. Nowadays, we would refer to this garment as a corset. The word "stay" can be traced back to the Old French word "estayer", which means "to prop or support". It eventually evolved into the Middle English word "stayen", which means "to support or stiffen".
The word "maker" is quite straightforward, simply indicating someone who makes or creates something. It originates from the Middle English word "makere", which is derived from the Old English word "macian", meaning "to make or construct".
When the two words, "stay" and "maker", are combined, "staymaker" refers to a person who makes stays or corsets.
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