barber's pole
Definition
Noun: A barber's pole is a vertically striped pole, traditionally red and white (sometimes with blue), that is displayed outside a barbershop as a symbol of the business. Historically, the stripes represent the bandages used in bloodletting, a service barbers once provided.
Usage
The term is used to refer to the specific sign or symbol for a barbershop. - The spinning barber's pole is a classic symbol. - You can find the shop by looking for the red and white barber's pole.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Symbol: The barber's pole is an internationally recognized symbol for barbering.
- Historical Reference: It is sometimes discussed in historical contexts about the evolution of the barber-surgeon profession.
Variants and Related Words
- Barber pole (noun): A common alternative spelling and term for "barber's pole."
- Barbershop (noun): The establishment where a barber's pole is typically found.
Synonyms
- Barber pole
- Barber's sign
- Barber shop pole
Idioms and Phrases
No common idioms or phrasal verbs are specifically formed with "barber's pole." It is primarily a fixed noun phrase.
Noun
-
striped pole outside a barbershop
