ZOOT SUIT Meaning and
Definition
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A zoot suit is a distinctive style of clothing popularized among African American and Latino communities in the 1940s. It consists of wide-legged, high-waisted trousers with a tight-fitting waistline, padded shoulders, and an excessively long jacket, often reaching mid-thigh. The ensemble is typically complemented by a wide-brimmed hat, long keychain, and flashy accessories.
Originating in the Jazz Age, zoot suits became a symbol of African American and Latino subcultures during the post-World War II era. The outfit embodied rebellion against societal norms and expressed a sense of identity, style, and cultural pride in the face of oppression.
The zoot suit often faced controversy and discrimination due to its association with marginalized communities. It became particularly notable during the Zoot Suit Riots in 1943, when servicemen clashed with predominantly Mexican American youth wearing zoot suits in Los Angeles. These riots reflected racial tensions and highlighted the social and racial inequalities prevalent at the time.
Beyond its historical context, the term "zoot suit" has transcended its original meaning and evolved into a broader symbol of cultural expression and fashion. It is now often associated with vintage aesthetics, jazz music, and the resilience of minority communities. The zoot suit continues to influence contemporary fashion and has left an indelible mark on American pop culture.
Common Misspellings for ZOOT SUIT
- xoot suit
- soot suit
- aoot suit
- ziot suit
- zkot suit
- zlot suit
- zpot suit
- z0ot suit
- z9ot suit
- zoit suit
- zokt suit
- zolt suit
- zopt suit
- zo0t suit
- zo9t suit
- zoor suit
- zoof suit
- zoog suit
- zooy suit
Etymology of ZOOT SUIT
The word "zoot suit" originated in African American culture in the late 1930s and 1940s. Its exact etymology, however, is not entirely clear, and there are a few suggested theories.
One theory suggests that the term "zoot" comes from a dialectal pronunciation of "suit", particularly influenced by African American Vernacular English. It is believed to have originated in the 1930s among African American jazz musicians in the United States.
Another theory suggests that the term "zoot" may have originated from a Mexican-Spanish word, "juzt" (pronounced "hust"), which means "pimp" or "exaggerated style". During the 1930s and 1940s, there was a significant Mexican-American population in Los Angeles, and it is believed that the term could have been adopted by African Americans from their Mexican neighbors.
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