waist

waist Definition

waist (wāst)

noun

the part of the body between the ribs and the hips
1. the part of a garment that covers the waist
2. waistline (sense )
3. the part of a garment covering the body from the shoulders to a line above the hips
4. the upper part of a woman's dress; bodice
5. Archaic blouse
the narrow part of any object that is wider at the ends the waist of a violin
Aeron. the middle section of the fuselage of an airplane, esp. a bomber
Naut. the central section of a ship; specif., the part of the deck between the forecastle and the quarterdeck
Zool. the narrow part of the front of the abdomen of certain insects, as ants or wasps

Etymology: ME wast < base of OE weaxan, to grow, wax: sense development: growth (of body), hence size, thickness

waist Synonyms

Part of the torso
waistline, middle, midriff, diaphragm, groin, waistband, waist measurement; see also abdomen.
Part of an upper garment
shirtwaist, bodice, bib, trunk; see clothes.

waist Usage Examples

Converse of object

elasticate: The elasticated waist is available in UK sizes 8 to 12.
nip: Classic shirtwaister style, with short sleeves, open revered collars and fitted nipped waist with gathered full dirndl skirt.
wade: Piles of boulders were separated by sections of wading, waist deep in places.

Preposition: with

belt: The " arisaid " reached the ground, and was fixed at the waist with a belt.

Adjective modifier

elastic: The pants have a 30 ' inseam and elastic waist with ivory trim.
slender: I put my arm around his slender waist and he moved closer.
slim: Great taste, cost a cinch, slim waist, lost an inch.
tiny: He had a good compact physique, very tiny waist, just lacked the mass of the top two.
adjustable: The adjustable waist, and trim front and cargo pocket are practical and flattering.
narrow: Defined shoulders create the illusion of a narrower waist.

Modifies a noun

circumference: Waist circumference is thought to be a better measure of helping you maintain your heart health than BMI.
cincher: The Ribbon Corset is a waist cincher made of ribbon.
cinchers: As seen on Kylie Minogue and Traci Bingham Plus many more waist cinchers and corsets to choose from.
sash: In Bali, waist sashes should be worn when visiting temples.
strap: Adjust the waist strap first, then remaining bent over, pull the shoulders just tight enough to take up the slack.
belt: Originally mocked, his wide waist belts have been much copied.

Noun used with modifier

drawstring: The French knickers have a flattering cut with an easy drawstring waist for a comfortable yet stunning fit.
inch: But 36 inch waist and 34 inch hips is 105 % - dangerous.
empire: The top has slit flutter sleeves, appliques of lace and an empire waist.
tie: The fabric is lightweight and super soft, with large pockets and a tie waist.

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