STRAIGHTEDGE Meaning and
Definition
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Straightedge is a term that primarily refers to a tool or instrument used to draw or measure straight lines accurately. It typically comprises a long and flat strip of material, commonly made of wood, plastic, or metal, which possesses one perfectly straight edge. This edge allows individuals to create precise and uninterrupted straight lines, thereby achieving accurate measurements or drawings. Straightedges are commonly used in various fields such as drafting, carpentry, engineering, and architecture.
Beyond its practical tool description, straightedge also carries a cultural meaning. In this context, a straightedge is an individual who abstains from the consumption of drugs, alcohol, and other intoxicants. This definition originates from the punk rock subculture during the 1980s, where adherents would use a straightedge to draw a distinct "X" on their hands as a symbol of their commitment to this lifestyle. Over time, the term straightedge expanded to encompass a larger social movement promoting clean living, self-discipline, and a rejection of societal norms associated with substance abuse.
In summary, straightedge refers to both a tool used for drawing and measuring straight lines accurately and a term associated with a subculture characterized by the rejection of substance abuse and adoption of a drug-free lifestyle.
Top Common Misspellings for STRAIGHTEDGE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for STRAIGHTEDGE
- atraightedge
- ztraightedge
- xtraightedge
- dtraightedge
- etraightedge
- wtraightedge
Etymology of STRAIGHTEDGE
The word "straightedge" is composed of two elements: "straight" and "edge".
The term "straight" comes from the Old English word "streht", which means "direct, undeviating, not crooked". This word has its roots in Proto-Germanic "strahtaz" and is related to the Old High German "strehit" and the Middle Dutch "strecht".
The term "edge" comes from the Old English word "ecg", which means "corner, edge, blade". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "agjo" and shares etymological connections with Old Norse "egg" and Old High German "egga".
When combined, "straight" and "edge" form "straightedge", referring to a tool with a straight and rigid edge used for drawing or measuring straight lines.
Similar spelling words for STRAIGHTEDGE
- straight person,
- straight chair,
- straighten up,
- straight-out,
- stargazing,
- straight poker,
- straightness,
- straight man,
- straightarrow,
- straight flush,
- straight pin,
- straight face,
- straight chain,
- straightway,
- straight line,
- straightener,
- straight-backed,
- straightforward,
- straight arch,
- straight sinus,
- straight flute,
- straight hang,
- straighten out,
- straight angle,
- straight-laced,
- straughter,
- straight-arm,
- straightaway,
- straighten,
- straightjacket,
- straight arrow,
- straight ticket,
- straightlaced,
- straight razor,
- straight off.
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