loin-cloth

A man wears a simple loin-cloth while gathering firewood.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A "loin-cloth" is a piece of cloth worn around the loins, typically covering the genital area and sometimes extending to cover the hips and upper thighs. It is often used as a simple garment in various cultures, especially in warm climates or for ceremonial purposes.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The tribesman wore a simple loin-cloth made of woven grass. (A basic garment covering the loins.)
  • In ancient Egypt, workers often wore a linen loin-cloth as their only clothing. (A minimal piece of attire for practical purposes.)

Advanced Usage

• "to wear a loin-cloth": to use this garment as a primary or traditional item of clothing.

  • The shaman donned a ceremonial loin-cloth for the ritual dance. (He put on a special garment for the event.)

• "loin-cloth as a symbol": in some contexts, the loin-cloth can represent simplicity, humility, or a connection to traditional ways of life.

  • In many cultures, the loin-cloth is a symbol of modesty and practicality. (It signifies a basic, unadorned form of dress.)

Variants and Related Words

• Loin-cloths (n, plural): multiple pieces of such garments.

  • The market sold colourful loin-cloths for tourists. (Several of these garments.)

• Loincloth (n, alternative spelling): a variant spelling without the hyphen, meaning the same garment.

  • He wore a simple loincloth while hiking in the jungle. (A single piece of cloth for covering.)

Synonyms

• Breechcloth: a similar garment worn around the hips or loins, often used by Native American tribes.
• Sarong: a larger piece of cloth wrapped around the waist, though it typically covers more of the body.
• Kilt: a pleated garment worn around the waist, but usually extending to the knees, unlike a loin-cloth.

Related Idioms

• "to be in a loin-cloth": to be dressed in minimal or traditional attire.
  • The explorer was photographed in a loin-cloth, adapting to the local climate. (He wore only that garment.)