The word "straitlaced" is commonly spelled with the letter "t" in the middle, although it can also be spelled "strait-laced." It is pronounced /streɪtˈleɪst/ or "strait-layst" in IPA phonetic transcription. The word means overly strict, conservative or morally prudish, especially when it comes to matters of dress or behavior. The origin of the word is interesting, as it comes from the 16th-century phrase "strait laces," which referred to the narrow laces used in corsetry to cinch up the waist, symbolizing tightness or constriction.
The term "straitlaced" refers to a person who has a strict adherence to conventional moral standards and behaves in a highly proper and respectable manner. This adjective is commonly applied to individuals who exhibit a marked degree of rigidity and self-control when it comes to their behavior, attitudes, and appearance, often conforming closely to societal norms and expectations.
A straitlaced person typically avoids engaging in activities or behaviors that are considered socially or morally unacceptable. They tend to adhere closely to traditional values and customs, often displaying a strong sense of propriety and modesty. Such individuals may appear conservative in their dress, speech, and actions, opting for more formal and modest choices that align with societal conventions.
Straitlaced behavior often stems from a desire to conform to established rules and maintain a respectable reputation. It can be seen as a conscious effort to uphold moral virtues and project an image of dignity and morality to the outside world. As a result, straitlaced individuals may appear less willing to participate in activities that deviate from societal norms, such as engaging in risqué or unconventional behaviors.
Overall, "straitlaced" describes an individual who strictly adheres to societal norms and displays a high degree of moral and behavioral self-restraint.
The word "straitlaced" is believed to have originated in the late 16th century and is a combination of two separate terms: "strait" and "laced".
The term "strait" comes from Old French "estreit", which means "narrow" or "tight". It eventually made its way into Middle English with the same meaning. In the context of "straitlaced", it refers to someone who is strict, rigid, or narrow-minded in their behavior or moral principles.
The term "laced" in this context does not refer to the act of tying shoelaces or adding strings to something. Instead, it is derived from an older sense of the word "lace" related to corsets. In the past, lacing was used to tighten or restrict the shape of a corset, thus constraining the body.