Beads Meaning and Definition
Beads
Pronunciation
/biːdz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small, often ornamental object, typically made of glass, plastic, or wood, used in jewelry, clothing, or other decorative items.
Examples
- The necklace was adorned with colorful beads.
- She knotted the beads together to make a unique accessory.
Synonyms
- Trinket
- Bauble
- Ornament
Antonyms
- Chunk
- Block
Additional Information
Beads have been used in various forms of jewelry and adornment across cultures and throughout history. They can be made from natural materials like gemstones, shells, and seeds, as well as synthetic materials like plastic and glass. Beads are often used to make intricate designs and patterns, and can be strung together to create unique and personalized pieces of jewelry.
Beads can also be used in meditation, healing, and spiritual practices, as they are believed to possess certain energies and properties. Different types of beads are thought to promote different effects, such as calmness, clarity, or protection.
Etymology
The word “bead” comes from Old English “bead”, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic “baziz”, meaning “ornament” or “gemstone”.
Usage Notes
Beads can be used as a singular or plural noun, depending on the context. For example, “The bead on her necklace was beautiful” refers to a single bead, while “The beads on her necklace were colorful” refers to multiple beads.
Cultural References
Beads have appeared in various forms of media, including literature, music, and film. For example, the novel “The Bead Game” by Keri Hulme explores the themes of identity, culture, and beauty through the use of beads.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Strung together” is an idiomatic phrase that refers to the act of creating a sequence of beads or other objects.
Related Words or Phrases
Keyed to, strung, knotted, beadwork, beading
Collocations
Beads and string, beads and necklace, beads and jewelry, beads and design
Frequency of Use
Beads are a commonly used word in everyday language, particularly in the context of jewelry and fashion.
Common Misspellings
Beedes, Beeds, Beeds