What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
garter
Example
She wore a garter belt to keep her stockings in place. [garter: noun]
Example
The bride's garter was blue and adorned with lace. [garter: noun]
Example
The surgeon used a garter to hold the surgical instruments in place. [garter: noun]
suspender
Example
He wore suspenders to keep his pants from falling down. [suspenders: noun]
Example
The woman's stockings were held up by suspenders attached to her corset. [suspenders: noun]
Example
The painter used a suspender to hang his canvas on the wall. [suspender: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Suspenders are more commonly used than garters in everyday language. Suspenders are still used as a functional accessory for some people, while garters are less common in modern fashion and are more associated with historical or ceremonial contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between garter and suspender?
While garter is typically associated with formal or ceremonial contexts, such as weddings or medical procedures, suspenders can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.