Shoes Meaning and Definition
Shoes
Pronunciation
/ʃuːz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A type of footwear worn on the feet, typically made from materials such as leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both.
Examples
- She tried on several pairs of shoes before buying the perfect pair.
- The shoes were scuffed and worn from years of heavy use.
Synonyms
- Ashes
- Hiking boots
- Pumps
Antonyms
- Bare feet
- Tights
Etymology
The word “Shoes” comes from the Latin word “soccus,” meaning “sandals,” which was also derived from the Greek word “ψωκός” (psōkos), meaning “sandals.” The term has evolved over time to encompass a wide range of footwear designs and materials.
Usage Notes
In formal contexts, it is common to use the phrase “shoes and socks” to refer to a person’s footwear. However, in informal settings, this phrase may be used to refer specifically to the footwear.
Shoes can also refer to parts of a building or structure that are designed to support and protect the feet, such as a shoe box or a shoe rail.
Cultural References
Shoes have been featured prominently in various forms of media, including literature, music, and film. For example, the iconic red shoes worn by Dorothy Gale in “The Wizard of Oz” (1939) have become a cultural symbol of courage and determination.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To be caught off guard
- To be in one’s shoes
- To be walking on air
Related Words or Phrases
- Footwear
- Shoelaces
- Sole
Collocations
- Shoes and socks
- New shoes
- High heels
Frequency of Use
Shoes are a ubiquitous part of daily life, and the term is used frequently in modern language, especially in the context of fashion and consumer culture.
Common Misspellings
- Shose
- Shoos
- Shooz