zip-fastener
Definition
- Noun:
- A fastening device: "zip-fastener" refers to a device consisting of two strips of fabric with interlocking metal or plastic teeth, closed or opened by pulling a sliding tab. It is used to fasten clothing, bags, and other items.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The jacket's zip-fastener broke, so I had to sew it back on. (The fastening device on the jacket malfunctioned.)
- She struggled with the zip-fastener on her suitcase. (She had difficulty operating the sliding closure on her luggage.)
Advanced Usage
"to zip up a zip-fastener": to close a zip-fastener by pulling the tab upward.
- He zipped up his coat's zip-fastener before going outside. (He closed the fastening device on his coat.)
"to unzip a zip-fastener": to open a zip-fastener by pulling the tab downward.
- She unzipped the zip-fastener on her backpack to retrieve her book. (She opened the fastening device on her backpack.)
Variants and Related Words
Zip (n): a shortened, informal form of "zip-fastener," commonly used in everyday speech.
- The zip on my trousers is stuck. (The fastening device on my trousers is not working.)
Zipper (n): an alternative term for "zip-fastener," more common in American English.
- He pulled the zipper on his jacket. (He operated the fastening device.)
Synonyms
- Fastener: a general term for any device that closes or secures something.
- Closure: a mechanism for closing an opening, such as a button, hook, or zip-fastener.
Phrasal Verbs
Zip up: to close something using a zip-fastener.
- Please zip up your bag before we leave. (Close your bag using the zip-fastener.)
Zip down: to open something using a zip-fastener (less common; usually "unzip").
- He zipped down his jacket because it was warm. (He opened his jacket using the zip-fastener.)
Related Idioms
- Zip one's lip: to stop talking or keep a secret. (Note: This idiom does not directly use "zip-fastener" but derives from the action of zipping a mouth shut.)
- You'd better zip your lip about the surprise party. (Keep quiet about the party.)