Crimping Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈkrɪmpɪŋ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

The act of compressing or flattening a material, such as wire or fabric, by bending or folding it over onto itself, typically to hold it in place or create a desired shape.

Examples

• The plumber crimped the pipe to seal the leak.
• The seamstress crimped the hem of the dress to create a decorative edge.
• The engineer crimped the wire to secure the electrical connection.
• The crafter crimped the fabric to create a textured, dimensional design.

Synonyms

• Compress
• Crush

Antonyms

• Extend
• Stretch

Etymology

The word “crimping” originates from the Old English word “crimpian,” meaning “to curl or twist,” and is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*krampiz,” which is related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*krep-,” meaning “to bend or curve.” Over time, the meaning of the word has expanded to include various concepts of compressing or flattening materials.

Usage Notes

Crimping is a versatile term that can be used in a variety of contexts, from engineering and crafting to plumbing and sewing. When using the word, consider the specific material or process being referred to, as well as the intent behind the action (e.g., to secure, to create texture, etc.).

Cultural References

In popular culture, crimping has been referenced in various contexts, including music, fashion, and art. For example, the term “crimping” has been used in song titles and lyrics to describe the process of compressing or flattening materials, as well as the emotional or psychological impact of being “crimped” or constrained.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

In everyday language, crimping is often used as an idiomatic expression or phrase to describe actions or states that involve compressing or flattening, such as “crimping the competition” or “feeling crimped” (i.e., constricted or restricted).

Related Words or Phrases

• Compress
• Crimp
• Crush
• Flatten

Collocations

• Crimp the wire
• Crimp the pipe
• Crimp the fabric
• Crimp the edge

Frequency of Use

Crimping is a relatively uncommon term in modern language, but it has gained popularity in certain industries and contexts, such as engineering, crafting, and plumbing. As a result, the term is likely to continue to evolve and be used in new and creative ways.

Common Misspellings

• Cramp
• Crimp
• Crampy
• Crampian