Waist
Definitions and Meaning in English
- The part of the body between the ribs and hips, typically the narrowest section.
- The region around the middle of the torso, often considered in terms of clothing fit.
- A specific measurement taken around the waistline, especially for clothing or fitness purposes.
History and Origin
The word “waist” comes from the Old English word waiste, derived from the Latin vitta meaning “band” or “girdle.” In earlier times, the term referred to a band or belt worn around the middle of the body. Over time, it evolved to describe the actual part of the body located between the ribs and hips, and in modern contexts, it is used in relation to body shape and fashion.
Detailed Explanation
The waist refers to the middle section of the human body, situated between the ribcage and the hips. It plays a crucial role in body movement and posture, and in many cultures, it is also an area of focus in terms of beauty and fitness. The waist is often used as a point of reference for measuring clothing sizes, particularly trousers, skirts, and belts. It also has a significant role in health, as excessive fat accumulation around the waistline is linked to various health risks, including heart disease and diabetes.
Example Sentences
- She tightened her belt around her waist before going for a run.
- The dress was designed to emphasize her slim waist.
- His waist measurement increased after several months of not exercising.
- The waist of the pants was too tight, making it uncomfortable to sit.
- I wear high-waisted jeans because they fit more comfortably.
- The surgeon made an incision just below the waist for the procedure.
- The belt was too loose around my waist, so I had to adjust it.
- She wore a jacket that cinched at the waist, giving it a more fitted look.
- The yoga class helped him improve his posture, especially around the waist.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Midsection – The area of the body around the waist, between the ribs and hips.
- Beltline – The horizontal line around the waist, often used in clothing.
- Core – The central part of the body, which includes the waist and surrounding muscles.
- Torso – The upper part of the body, excluding the head, arms, and legs, typically referencing the area around the waist.
- Waistline – The measurement around the waist or the line of the waist, often used in fashion.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Hip – The region below the waist, often associated with body shape and movement.
- Abdomen – The area of the body between the chest and pelvis, often overlapping with the waist area.
- Stomach – The internal organ in the abdomen, but sometimes used to refer to the area around the waist.
- Torso – The central part of the body, encompassing the waist and surrounding areas.
- Bust – The chest area, typically used in conjunction with the waist in body measurements.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Cinch – A strap or belt used around the waist to tighten or secure clothing.
- Girdle – A garment worn around the waist to shape or support the body.
- Sash – A piece of cloth worn around the waist or across the body as a fashion accessory.
- Tummy – An informal term for the stomach, often used to refer to the lower waist region.
- Corset – A tight-fitting garment worn around the waist to shape the torso.
Antonyms
- Shoulders
- Neck
- Hips
- Back
- Chest