godet: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical (Fashion/Textiles), Specialized (Geology)
Quick answer
What does “godet” mean?
A triangular or tapered piece of fabric inserted into a garment (especially a skirt or sleeve) to add fullness or a decorative flare.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A triangular or tapered piece of fabric inserted into a garment (especially a skirt or sleeve) to add fullness or a decorative flare.
In sewing and fashion design, a specific technique for creating volume or a flowing shape. In geology, a small, deep, often circular depression or basin.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The fashion term is used identically in both varieties. The geological term is equally rare in both.
Connotations
Neutral technical term. In fashion, it implies a specific, intentional design technique.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Used almost exclusively within fashion design, tailoring, and sewing contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “godet” in a Sentence
The [GARMENT] has a [NUMBER] godet(s)to insert a godet into the [PART OF GARMENT]a [ADJECTIVE] godet of [FABRIC]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “godet” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The pattern instructs you to godet the side seams for extra movement.
American English
- She decided to godet the hem to give the dress more swing.
adjective
British English
- The godet insertion was done with exquisite precision.
American English
- It's a godet skirt, not a pleated one.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in fashion manufacturing, design specifications, and textile industry procurement.
Academic
Found in fashion history, textile arts, and costume design papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard term in sewing patterns, dressmaking manuals, and fashion design.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “godet”
- Pronouncing it as /ˈɡɒdɪt/ (like 'god' + 'it').
- Using it to refer to any kind of pleat or gather.
- Misspelling as 'gode', 'godette', or 'godet'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a highly specialized technical term used primarily in fashion design, dressmaking, and sewing.
They are often used interchangeably in tailoring. However, a 'gore' typically refers to a vertical panel that makes up the structure of a skirt from waist to hem, while a 'godet' is usually a triangular insert added into a cut or seam to create flare.
In British English, it's /ˈɡəʊdeɪ/ (GO-day). In American English, it's often /ɡoʊˈdeɪ/ (go-DAY). The stress differs.
Yes, though rarely. In technical sewing contexts, one can 'godet a seam', meaning to insert a godet into it.
A triangular or tapered piece of fabric inserted into a garment (especially a skirt or sleeve) to add fullness or a decorative flare.
Godet is usually technical (fashion/textiles), specialized (geology) in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'GO for a twirl in a DETachable flare' – a godet is a detachable-looking piece that makes a skirt go out.
Conceptual Metaphor
FASHION IS ARCHITECTURE (a structural insert that changes the shape).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'godet' most commonly used?