gilda: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal/Literary for the material term; Culturally specific for the film reference.
Quick answer
What does “gilda” mean?
An ornamental border or edging, especially one made with a thin strip of gold or other metal.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An ornamental border or edging, especially one made with a thin strip of gold or other metal.
In cinema and literature, the name 'Gilda' (from the 1946 film starring Rita Hayworth) evokes an archetype of a glamorous, seductive, and dangerous woman. It can also refer to the character or the actress Rita Hayworth herself in that iconic role.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage. The film reference is equally recognized in both cultures. The decorative term is equally obscure in both.
Connotations
Connotes classic Hollywood glamour, film noir, a specific mid-20th century aesthetic, and femme fatale archetypes.
Frequency
The term is very rarely used as a common noun. The proper noun 'Gilda' is of medium-low frequency, primarily in cultural, film, or fashion discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “gilda” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] (referring to the character)a [gilded] effect (related via 'gild')Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gilda” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The frame was expertly gilded to create a subtle gilda effect.
American English
- The artisan gilded the edge, creating a fine gilda.
adverb
British English
- The trim was applied gilda-fashion along the seam.
American English
- She smiled Gilda-esquely, full of old Hollywood charm.
adjective
British English
- The mirror had a delicate, gilda border.
American English
- She wore a Gilda-style dress to the vintage party.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in film studies, gender studies, or cultural history contexts discussing the 1946 film or its impact.
Everyday
Rarely used. May appear in discussions of classic cinema or vintage fashion.
Technical
In decorative arts, a very specific term for a type of gilded border (extremely rare).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gilda”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gilda”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gilda”
- Using 'gilda' as a common noun for any decorative trim (it's highly specific).
- Misspelling as 'Gildar' or 'Gildah'.
- Confusing the film 'Gilda' with other Rita Hayworth films.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not common. Its most frequent use is as the proper name of a famous film and its title character.
Not directly. The related verb is 'to gild'. 'Gilda' as a noun is derived from this process but is itself not used as a verb.
It is a landmark film noir that established Rita Hayworth as a major icon and created a lasting image of the glamorous, complex femme fatale in popular culture.
No, film titles are often not translated, especially iconic ones like 'Gilda'. It is recognized internationally by its original name.
An ornamental border or edging, especially one made with a thin strip of gold or other metal.
Gilda is usually formal/literary for the material term; culturally specific for the film reference. in register.
Gilda: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡɪl.də/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡɪl.də/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Put the blame on Gilda (reference to the song 'Put the Blame on Mame' from the film)”
- “Doing a Gilda (acting in a provocatively glamorous way)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'GILD-a' as something that is GILDED with glamour, like Rita Hayworth's character.
Conceptual Metaphor
GLAMOUR IS A GILDED SURFACE / SEDUCTION IS A PERFORMED DANCE
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary modern cultural reference of the word 'Gilda'?