wasp-waist
Definition
- Noun:
- A very narrow waist: "wasp-waist" refers to an extremely slender or constricted waist, resembling the narrow midsection of a wasp. This term is often used to describe a particular silhouette in fashion or body shape.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- She achieved a wasp-waist by wearing a tightly laced corset. (A very narrow waist achieved through constriction.)
- The Victorian era idealized the wasp-waist as a symbol of femininity. (The extreme slenderness of the waist was a fashion ideal.)
Advanced Usage
"to have a wasp-waist": to possess an exceptionally thin waist.
- The actress was known for her wasp-waist, which she maintained through rigorous exercise. (She had an extremely slender midsection.)
"wasp-waisted" (adjective): describing a person or garment that creates or possesses a very narrow waist.
- The wasp-waisted corset was popular in the 19th century. (A corset designed to produce a very thin waist.)
Variants and Related Words
Wasp-waisted (adj): having a very narrow waist.
- The wasp-waisted silhouette was achieved by tight lacing. (The shape with a very thin waist.)
Waist (n): the part of the body between the ribs and the hips.
- She measured her waist to check the fit of the dress. (The midsection of the body.)
Synonyms
- Hourglass figure: a body shape with a narrow waist and wider hips and bust, though not as extreme as a wasp-waist.
- Tiny waist: a very small or slender waist, often used more generally.
Related Idioms
- "wasp-waist" is not commonly used in idioms, but it may appear in fashion or historical contexts to emphasize extreme slimness.