Etymology
The word "poulaine" derives from the Old French term "poulaine," which means "Polish."
Meaning
Poulaine refers to a type of footwear that was popular during the late Middle Ages, particularly in the 14th and 15th centuries.
Origin * The origin of poulaines is unclear, but they are believed to have originated in Poland or Hungary and were introduced to Western Europe around the 12th century. * They became increasingly popular among the upper classes from the 14th century onwards.
Characteristics * Poulaines were characterized by their extremely long and pointed toes, which could sometimes exceed several inches in length. * The toes were often stuffed with horsehair or straw to maintain their shape. * Poulaines were typically made of leather or velvet and were often decorated with intricate embroidery or metal fittings. * Wearing poulaines was considered a sign of wealth and status, and their exaggerated length was often used to display one's affluence.
Decline * The fashion for poulaines declined in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. * This was partly due to their impracticality, as the long toes made it difficult to walk or ride a horse. * They were also criticized by the church for their extravagant nature and for being a distraction from religious devotion.
Later Influences * The exaggerated pointed toes of poulaines influenced the shape of shoes in later periods, particularly in the 17th century with "winkle pickers" and in the 19th century with "vampires." * The name "poulaine" is still used today to refer to shoes with long, pointed toes.
Etymology The name Cracow Polish Kraków is derived from the Old Polish word krak
Etymology The name Kraków is derived from the Proto Slavic word krakъ meaning crow
Etymology French anecdote unpublished or private story Late Latin anekdotos unpubli
Etymology From Middle English onest from Anglo Norman oneste from Old French oneste
Etymology The word vignette comes from the French word vigne meaning vine or vine
Etymology Old French endurer Latin indūrāre to harden make firm Proto Indo Euro
Etymology The word theme derives from the Greek word thema θέμα which means s
Etymology Old French consumpcion Latin consumptionem past participle of consumere t
Etymology The word beam has several different origins Old English bēam log tre
Etymology The word betray comes from the Old French word betreier which in turn come
Etymology The word humor derives from the Latin word humor meaning liquid or mois
