bowtie
Definition
- Noun:
- A man's necktie that is tied into a symmetrical bow shape: A "bowtie" is a type of formal neckwear consisting of a ribbon of fabric tied so the two opposite ends form loops. It is a traditional accessory for formal attire.
Usage and Examples
- Noun:
- He wore a crisp white shirt and a black silk bowtie to the gala.
- For the wedding, the groom chose a velvet bowtie to match his suit.
- The professor is known for his collection of colorful, patterned bowties.
Advanced Usage
- "Pre-tied bowtie" or "clip-on bowtie": A bowtie that is permanently formed and attached to a clip or band, designed for convenience rather than being tied by the wearer.
- He opted for a pre-tied bowtie because he didn't know how to tie one himself.
Variants and Related Words
- Bow (noun): The knotted shape itself. (e.g., )
- Necktie (noun): The more common, long necktie that hangs down. A "bowtie" is a specific type of necktie.
- Black-tie (adjective): A formal dress code that typically requires a black bowtie and tuxedo.
- The invitation specified a black-tie event.
Synonyms
- Butterfly tie: A less common synonym for "bowtie," describing its shape.
Antonyms
- (Long) Tie / Necktie: The standard, long strip of fabric worn around the neck and knotted at the throat, with the ends hanging down.
Related Phrases and Contexts
- To tie a bowtie: The action of creating the bow knot.
- It took him several tries to learn how to tie a bowtie properly.
- Bowtie pasta: A type of pasta named for its shape, which resembles a bowtie. (This is a compound noun listed here as a related term, not a definition of the target word "bowtie" itself).
- The recipe calls for farfalle, also known as bowtie pasta.
Noun
- a man's tie that ties in a bow
