Bloomer is a word that has been in use for centuries, but its meaning and associations have evolved over time. In this article, we will explore the various definitions and origins of bloomer, as well as its synonyms, antonyms, and related words.
Definitions
The word bloomer can have several meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. Some of the most common definitions include:
- A type of loose-fitting women’s undergarment that was popular in the 19th century.
- A mistake or error, especially one that is embarrassing or costly.
- A person who achieves success or recognition later in life than their peers.
Origin
The word bloomer is believed to have originated in the early 1800s, when a woman named Amelia Bloomer popularized a new style of women’s clothing that included a loose-fitting pantaloons worn under a knee-length dress. These pants were known as bloomers, after their inventor.
Over time, the term bloomer came to be associated with other things besides women’s clothing. Today, it is most commonly used to describe a mistake or error, but it can also refer to a late bloomer who achieves success later in life.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of bloomer can vary slightly from one dictionary to another. Here are some examples:
- Merriam-Webster defines bloomer as “a garment for women consisting of loose trousers gathered at the knee and worn under a skirt.”
- Oxford English Dictionary defines bloomer as “a foolish mistake or error.”
- Cambridge Dictionary defines bloomer as “a mistake, especially one that is embarrassing or costly.”
Associations
The word bloomer can have a variety of associations, depending on the context in which it is used. Some of the most common associations include:
- Women’s clothing: The word bloomer is often associated with the loose-fitting pants worn by women in the 19th century.
- Mistakes: The word bloomer is commonly used to describe a mistake or error, especially one that is embarrassing or costly.
- Late bloomers: The word bloomer can also be associated with people who achieve success later in life than their peers.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for bloomer include:
- Error.
- Blunder.
- Faux pas.
- Slip-up.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for bloomer include:
- Success.
- Achievement.
- Correctness.
- Accuracy.
- Perfection.
The same root words
The word bloomer does not have any direct root words, but it is related to the name Amelia Bloomer, who invented the loose-fitting pants that were known as bloomers.
Example Sentences
- She wore a bloomer under her dress to make it easier to move around.
- He made a bloomer when he forgot to include the tax in his calculations.
- Despite being a bloomer in his youth, he went on to become a successful businessman.