shirt etymology

Etymology:

The word "shirt" comes from the Old English word "sċyrte," which referred to a loose-fitting garment worn next to the skin. It is believed to be derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*skurtjaz," which also meant a short tunic or shirt.

Meaning:

A shirt is a garment typically worn on the upper body, covering the torso and arms. It can be made from various materials, such as cotton, linen, or silk, and can have different styles, such as short-sleeved, long-sleeved, button-down, or polo.

Origin:

The earliest forms of shirts originated in ancient times and were worn by various cultures around the world. In ancient Egypt, linen shirts were common, while in ancient Greece, men wore tunics known as chiton. In ancient Rome, men wore a garment called a tunica, which was similar to a shirt.

During the Middle Ages in Europe, shirts were worn by both men and women as undergarments. They were typically made from linen or wool and were worn under tunics, robes, or dresses. By the 16th century, shirts began to evolve into separate garments, and men's shirts became more elaborate, with lace ruffs and cuffs.

In the 19th century, shirts became standardized and began to be mass-produced. The invention of the sewing machine made it possible to produce shirts in large quantities, and they became a staple item of clothing for people of all ages and genders.

Today, shirts are worn for a wide variety of occasions, from casual to formal. They are an essential item of clothing in most wardrobes and come in a vast array of styles, materials, and colors.

shirt relate terms

  • hair shirt

    Etymology The term hair shirt is derived from the Latin phrase cilium hair and sa

  • hair

    Etymology The word hair comes from the Proto Germanic word harja which is related t

  • shirt

    Etymology The word shirt comes from the Old English word sċyrte which referred to

  • haircloth

    Etymology Haircloth is derived from two Old English words Haer Hair Claeth Cloth

  • half shirt

    Etymology The term half shirt derives from the fact that it covers only half of the tor

  • shirt

    Etymology The word shirt comes from the Old English word sċyrte which referred to

  • redshirt

    Etymology Beginning in the 19th century it was common practice for new sailors in the n

  • sark

  • skirt

    Etymology Old English scyrte from Proto Germanic skurta short Cognate with Ol

  • chemise

    Etymology The word chemise is derived from the Old French word chemise which in tur

  • polo

    Etymology Polo is derived from the Balti word pulu meaning ball Origin Polo ori

  • cilice

    Etymology Latin cilicium Greek κίλλιξ killix Meaning A cilice is a garmen

  • cuff

    Etymology and Origin Cuff is derived from the Anglo Norman word cuffe meaning part

  • dress

    Etymology The word dress comes from the Old French word drecier which means to stra

  • T shirt

    Etymology The term T shirt originated from the shape of the shirt when laid flat rese

  • apparel

    Etymology Apparel derives from the Old French word appareil meaning preparation