A bow tie is a type of necktie that is worn by men and women alike. It is a small, usually fabric, piece that is tied around the collar of a shirt. Bow ties are known for their formal and sophisticated look and are often worn to events such as weddings, black-tie events, and formal dinners.
Definitions
A bow tie is defined as a type of necktie that consists of a fabric ribbon tied in a bow around the collar of a shirt. It is a type of neckwear that is worn with formal attire.
Origin
The bow tie has been around for centuries, with the earliest known examples dating back to the 17th century. It is believed that the bow tie was originally worn by Croatian mercenaries during the Thirty Years’ War, who used a scarf tied around their necks to hold the collars of their shirts together.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a bow tie is “a short, narrow strip of fabric that is tied in a bow around the neck and that is worn by men with formal clothing”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a necktie consisting of a ribbon tied in a bow at the neck”.
Associations
Bow ties are often associated with formal events and occasions, such as weddings, black-tie events, and formal dinners. They are also sometimes worn as part of a uniform, such as by waiters or hotel staff.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for bow tie include necktie, cravat, and ascot.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for bow tie, but some opposite types of neckwear could be a scarf or a turtleneck.
The same root words
The word “bow” in bow tie refers to the shape of the knot that is tied in the ribbon. The word “tie” refers to the fact that it is a type of neckwear that is tied around the neck.
Example Sentences
- He wore a black bow tie with his tuxedo to the wedding.
- The waiter’s uniform included a white shirt and a black bow tie.
- She added a pop of color to her outfit with a bright red bow tie.