corsage: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Semi-formal
Quick answer
What does “corsage” mean?
A small bouquet of flowers worn by a woman, typically pinned to her clothing or tied to her wrist.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small bouquet of flowers worn by a woman, typically pinned to her clothing or tied to her wrist.
Historically, the bodice or upper part of a woman's dress. In modern usage, it almost exclusively refers to the decorative flower arrangement worn at formal events.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The meaning is identical in both varieties. However, the custom of wearing a corsage is slightly more common and codified in American formal events (e.g., high school prom).
Connotations
Both: formality, tradition, celebration. American usage has a stronger connotation of 'prom' and 'homecoming' dances.
Frequency
Used with similar low frequency in both varieties, primarily in event-planning, floristry, and formal social contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “corsage” in a Sentence
[Verb] + corsage (wear, order, pin, make)[Adjective] + corsage (wrist, pin-on, floral)corsage + [Preposition] + [Noun] (corsage for the prom, corsage of orchids)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “corsage” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The florist will corsage the orchids onto a silver wristband.
American English
- She had her flowers corsaged for the homecoming dance.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the floristry and event planning industries.
Academic
Rare, except in historical studies of fashion or cultural studies of rituals.
Everyday
Used when discussing preparations for formal dances, weddings, or milestone celebrations.
Technical
In floristry, refers to a specific type of small, assembled wearable floral piece.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “corsage”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “corsage”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “corsage”
- Mispronouncing as /ˈkɔːrsɪdʒ/ (like 'corset').
- Using it to refer to a large bouquet or a centerpiece.
- Confusing it with a boutonniere (male counterpart).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A corsage is worn by women, typically on the wrist or pinned to a dress. A boutonniere is a smaller floral decoration worn by men, pinned to the lapel of a suit jacket.
No, it is a low-frequency word used primarily in the context of formal events like proms, weddings, and dances.
No, the term is specifically for a floral piece worn by women. The male equivalent is called a boutonniere.
It comes from the French word 'corsage', meaning 'the size of a body' or 'bodice', from 'corps' (body). The floral meaning developed because the flowers were originally pinned to the bodice.
A small bouquet of flowers worn by a woman, typically pinned to her clothing or tied to her wrist.
Corsage is usually formal, semi-formal in register.
Corsage: in British English it is pronounced /kɔːˈsɑːʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /kɔrˈsɑʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to the word 'corsage'.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: CORSAGE is worn on the CORSET (the bodice) or at the core of a formal outfit. It's a small bouquet for a special page in your life.
Conceptual Metaphor
FLOWERS ARE DECORATIVE HONORS (worn to signify participation in a special event).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary modern meaning of 'corsage'?