g-string: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, Colloquial
Quick answer
What does “g-string” mean?
A very brief, narrow undergarment or dance costume that covers only the pubic area, held in place by a thin string around the hips.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A very brief, narrow undergarment or dance costume that covers only the pubic area, held in place by a thin string around the hips.
In music, the term refers to the G string on a violin or similar instrument. However, in contemporary informal usage, the undergarment meaning dominates.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the term predominantly for the undergarment. Spelling with a hyphen ('g-string') is standard in both, though unhyphenated 'G-string' for the musical term is possible. The word is understood identically.
Connotations
Connotations are identical: risqué, revealing, associated with adult entertainment or beachwear.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both varieties within informal/contextual domains. The musical term is equally rare in general conversation.
Grammar
How to Use “g-string” in a Sentence
wear + [g-string]dressed in + [g-string][g-string] + made of + materialVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “g-string” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The g-string design was quite daring.
- She preferred a g-string style.
American English
- The g-string bikini was popular.
- It was a g-string cut.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in retail (lingerie, swimwear) and adult entertainment industry contexts.
Academic
Rare; might appear in cultural studies, gender studies, or fashion history papers.
Everyday
Informal, often with humorous or embarrassed tone; not typical in polite or formal conversation.
Technical
In music, refers to a specific violin string (capitalized: G string). In fashion/textiles, refers to the garment design.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “g-string”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “g-string”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “g-string”
- Confusing with 'G-string' the musical term in translation.
- Using in overly formal contexts.
- Misspelling as 'gee-string'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Often used synonymously, but purists argue a g-string has a thinner string at the back and even less fabric in front than a typical thong.
Etymology is uncertain. One theory links it to 'girdle' or 'groin'; another, now largely discredited, suggests it came from 'gee-string' as a Native American loincloth (breechclout). The 'G' likely does not refer to the musical note.
No, unless the topic specifically demands it (e.g., cultural studies). In most formal contexts, more general terms like 'minimal undergarment' or 'thong bikini' (if applicable) are preferred.
The hyphenated form 'g-string' is standard for the garment. The unhyphenated 'G string' (often capitalized) is typically reserved for the musical term.
A very brief, narrow undergarment or dance costume that covers only the pubic area, held in place by a thin string around the hips.
G-string: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdʒiː strɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdʒiː strɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not applicable for this word.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the 'G' as the minimal shape it covers, and the 'string' is what holds it on.
Conceptual Metaphor
CLOTHING IS A CONCEALER (but minimally so).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'g-string' MOST LIKELY refer to a piece of clothing?