girdle
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈɡɜːr.dl̩/
KK: /ˈɡɜrdl/
noun
Definition
A band or belt worn around the waist, or a strip of bark removed from a tree.
Example
She wore a beautiful girdle that matched her dress.
Conversation
I just bought a new girdle to wear under my dress for the party.
That sounds great! Does it fit well?
Yeah, it's really comfortable and gives me a nice shape.
Awesome! I can't wait to see how it looks on you.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
belt
sash
band
Antonyms
looseness
slack
release
transitive verb
Definition
To encircle or surround something, often with a belt or a similar object.
Example
The mountains girdle the valley, creating a beautiful landscape.
Tense Forms
Past: girdled
Past Participle: girdled
Conversation
Did you see how they girdle the whole area with that new fence?
Yeah, it really makes the place look more secure.
I wonder if they’ll girdle the park next.
Root Explanation
Girdle → The word originates from Old English 'gyrdel', meaning a belt or a band. It refers to a band or belt that encircles the body.
Memory Tip
Picture a belt that 'encircles' your waist — that's what a girdle does.
Visually Confused Words
ungirdle
engirdle
begirdle
gurdle
girsle
girlie
ungirdled
idle