ZIPPERS Meaning and
Definition
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Zippers, also known as zip fasteners or simply zips, are versatile fastening devices widely used in the textile industry to join two pieces of fabric or materials by interlocking their teeth or coils. These devices consist of two parallel fabric strips or tapes, each attached to one of the openings or edges to be joined, with a line of interlocking metal or plastic teeth or coils that run along the length of the tape. The primary purpose of zippers is to easily open and close garments or other textile products, ensuring secure closures.
Zippers offer convenience, allowing for quick and efficient opening and closing of various items, such as clothing, bags, and accessories. The slider, a small tool with a handle, is used to move along the teeth or coils, either joining them together or separating them to open or close the zipper. Zippers come in a wide range of sizes, materials, and designs, providing versatility for different applications and requirements.
In addition to their functional aspects, zippers can also serve decorative purposes, adding style and elegance to garments and accessories. They can be found in various forms, including concealed or hidden zippers, exposed zippers, decorative zippers, and dual-purpose zippers. The invention of modern zippers can be attributed to Whitcomb L. Judson, who patented his "Clasp Locker or Unlocker" in 1891, and since then, zippers have become an essential component in the fashion and manufacturing industries, providing efficient and reliable fastening solutions.
Common Misspellings for ZIPPERS
Etymology of ZIPPERS
The word "zippers" has an interesting etymology that traces back to the early 20th century. The term "zipper" was originally a trademark name for a fastening device created by B.F. Goodrich Company, an American rubber company, in 1923. The device was invented by Gideon Sundback, a Swedish-American electrical engineer.
The trademarked name "zipper" was chosen to imitate the sound that the fastening device made when operated. However, it was initially used specifically for the fastening mechanism used in rubber boots and tobacco pouches. The term became popularized when it was applied to the fasteners used in clothing later on.
As the popularity of the fastening device and its usage in clothing grew, the word "zipper" transitioned from being a proper noun to a common noun, representing any similar fastening device.
