Pleat Meaning and Definition
Pleat
Pronunciation
/pleɪt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A fold or crease in a fabric, especially one that is permanent and intended to be decorative; also, a style of sewing or fabric construction.
Etymology
The word “pleat” comes from the Old French word “pleier”, meaning “to fold”, which is derived from the Latin word “plectere”, meaning “to weave” or “to fold”.
Usage Notes
Pleats are often used in clothing and textiles to add visual interest or to create a specific silhouette. In sewing, pleats are a type of fold made in a fabric to create a structured or accordion-like effect.
Cultural References
Pleats have been a staple of fashion and textiles for centuries. In the 1960s, the “pleated skirt” became a iconic garment in the fashion world, symbolizing modesty and elegance.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Pleat and seam” – a phrase used to describe the careful craftsmanship of a garment
Related Words or Phrases
- Fold
- Collapse
- Sew
Collocations
- Pleat in fabric
- Pleat of a uniform
Frequency of Use
Pleats are a commonly used term in fashion, textiles, and sewing, with moderate frequency of use in everyday language.
Common Misspellings
- Plet
- Plit