clothes pole: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, dated
Quick answer
What does “clothes pole” mean?
A pole, often made of wood or metal, erected outside to hang clothes on for drying.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A pole, often made of wood or metal, erected outside to hang clothes on for drying.
A structure, typically a tall pole with supporting lines, used for air-drying laundry. In some contexts, can refer to a simple indoor pole for drying clothes in a utility room or garage.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is more likely to be recognized in North America (especially in older or rural use) than in modern British English, where 'washing line' is near-universal. In the US, 'clothesline' is the dominant term.
Connotations
In both regions, it connotes a traditional, non-mechanical method of drying laundry, often associated with frugality, fresh air, or a rural setting.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both. In the UK, it is virtually obsolete. In the US, it may persist in certain dialects or in the speech of older generations.
Grammar
How to Use “clothes pole” in a Sentence
[Verb] the clothes pole (e.g., *put up, install, use*)Hang [Noun Phrase] on the clothes pole (e.g., *hang the laundry on the clothes pole*)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Used in domestic contexts related to laundry and household chores, though the term itself is dated.
Technical
Not used; appliance terminology would be preferred.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “clothes pole”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “clothes pole”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “clothes pole”
- Confusing it with 'curtain pole' or 'totem pole'. Using 'clothespole' as one word (standard is two words: *clothes pole*).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. A 'clothes pole' is typically a fixed, permanent outdoor pole, while a 'drying rack' is often a portable, indoor frame with multiple tiers.
It is understood but sounds dated or regional. 'Clothesline' or 'washing line' are the standard terms used today.
A 'clothes pole' is the vertical support post. A 'clothesline' is the rope or cord strung between two poles (or other supports) on which clothes are hung.
It is an open compound noun, written as two separate words: 'clothes pole'.
A pole, often made of wood or metal, erected outside to hang clothes on for drying.
Clothes pole is usually informal, dated in register.
Clothes pole: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkləʊðz ˌpəʊl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkloʊðz ˌpoʊl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a TELEPHONE POLE, but instead of wires, it has CLOTHES hanging from it.
Conceptual Metaphor
UTILITY IS UPRIGHT SUPPORT (a pole provides the necessary support for the utility of drying).
Practice
Quiz
Which term is the MOST common modern equivalent for 'clothes pole'?