What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crinoline
Example
The bride's dress had a crinoline underneath to give it a full shape. [crinoline: noun]
Example
She wore a crinoline skirt to the costume party to complete her Victorian look. [crinoline: adjective]
petticoat
Example
She wore a petticoat under her dress to keep warm in the cold weather. [petticoat: noun]
Example
The ballerina's tutu had several layers of petticoats to give it volume. [petticoats: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Petticoat is more commonly used than crinoline in everyday language. Petticoat is a versatile garment that has been worn throughout history and is still occasionally worn today, while crinoline is less common and associated with a more historical context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crinoline and petticoat?
While crinoline is typically associated with a more formal and historical context, petticoat is less formal and can be used in a wider range of contexts, making it suitable for both formal and informal situations.