noun / verb
girdle
GUR-dul/ˈɡɜːrdl/
A close-fitting band that encircles and supports something.
The shaping girdle has firm elastic panels and supportive seams.
Etymology
The pieces describe something used to gird or encircle: originally a belt securing clothing at the waist. The name later became a euphemistic term for an elastic corset, retaining the idea of encircling the waist.
In context
our firmest control girdle, which is our long line glamour girdle.
More examples
- Her girdle fits snugly beneath the dress.
- The shoulder girdle connects the arm to the rest of the skeleton.
- A line of trees girdles the field.
Forms
girdle · girdles · girdled · girdling