noun
crinoline
KRIN-uh-lin/ˈkrɪnəlɪn/
Stiff material used to support a skirt's shape.
A layer of crinoline gives the skirt its full shape.
Etymology
Hair and flax name the original fabric’s horsehair and linen fibers. The stiff cloth supported skirts, and its name passed to the underskirt and later to supporting frameworks.
In context
A crinoline is a stiff or structured petticoat designed to hold out a woman's skirt. For Victorian women, crinolines were the height of fashion, but they were also dangerous.
More examples
- She sews crinoline beneath the satin to support the hem.
- The costume needs stiffer crinoline to keep the skirt from drooping.
- Soft lining keeps the crinoline from scratching her legs.
Forms
crinoline
Similar words
- buckram
- A heavy stiffened fabric, commonly used for hats and bookbinding.
- tulle
- A fine net fabric, usually softer and less supportive.