wellingtons
Definition
- Noun (plural only):
- Waterproof boots: "Wellingtons" are a type of tall, waterproof boot, typically made of rubber or a similar material, designed to keep the feet and lower legs dry in wet or muddy conditions. They are often worn for outdoor work, gardening, or in rainy weather.
Usage Examples
- (She used waterproof boots to keep her feet dry.)
- (The farmer wears the boots for outdoor farm work.)
- (Children enjoy playing in wet conditions with the boots.)
Advanced Usage
"Wellington boots": The full, formal name for the same item, often shortened to "wellies" in informal British English.
- He bought a new pair of Wellington boots for the hiking trip. (He purchased the specific type of waterproof boot.)
"to pull on one's wellingtons": To put on the boots, often with effort due to their tight fit.
- She quickly pulled on her wellingtons and ran outside. (She put on the boots hastily.)
Variants and Related Words
Wellington (n, singular, rare): A single boot from a pair of wellingtons.
- One of his wellingtons had a hole in the sole. (One boot was damaged.)
Wellies (n, plural, informal): A common abbreviation for "wellingtons" in British English.
- Don't forget your wellies—it's muddy out there! (Don't forget your rubber boots.)
Synonyms
- Rubber boots: A general term for boots made of rubber, often synonymous with wellingtons.
- Waders: Tall waterproof boots used in fishing or hunting, sometimes extending higher than wellingtons.
- Rain boots: A casual term for boots worn in rainy weather.
Related Idioms
"To be in one's wellingtons": To be wearing the boots, often implying readiness for outdoor or messy work.
- He's always in his wellingtons when the weather turns wet. (He always wears them in rainy conditions.)
"A pair of wellingtons": The standard way to refer to the boots as a set.
- She packed a pair of wellingtons for the camping trip. (She brought the boots as part of her gear.)