stickpin: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Formal, Historical, Fashion
Quick answer
What does “stickpin” mean?
A decorative straight pin with a gemstone, decorative head, or ornament, worn to secure a necktie or ascot to a shirt.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A decorative straight pin with a gemstone, decorative head, or ornament, worn to secure a necktie or ascot to a shirt.
Any long, straight pin used for decorative purposes; figuratively, it can refer to something slender and sharp that resembles such a pin (e.g., a stickpin mustache).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the term identically. No significant lexical difference. 'Tie pin' is a possible synonym in both, though 'tie pin' can be broader (including clips).
Connotations
In both, evokes early-to-mid 20th century fashion, formality, and wealth (if jewelled). Neutral/descriptive term.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects, primarily found in historical, fashion, or antique contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “stickpin” in a Sentence
[Subject] wore/wears a [Adjective] stickpin.A stickpin [Verb: secured, fastened, adorned] the tie.[Prepositional Phrase: In his collection] was a valuable stickpin.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “stickpin” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He carefully stickpinned his regimental tie before the ceremony.
American English
- He stickpinned his silk ascot for the vintage-themed party.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- His stickpin collection was displayed in a velvet-lined case.
American English
- He preferred a stickpin look over a modern tie clip.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in descriptions of formal, traditional dress codes or in luxury goods (jewellery) sectors.
Academic
Used in historical, fashion, or material culture studies describing early 20th-century male attire.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Mostly understood but not used actively unless discussing vintage fashion or antiques.
Technical
In jewellery/antique dealing, a specific category of item with descriptions of materials (gold, pearl, enamel).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “stickpin”
- Using 'stickpin' for a modern tie clip or bar. Misidentifying any decorative pin as a stickpin. Spelling as two words ('stick pin') when referring to the accessory.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A stickpin is a straight pin with a decorative head that pierces the fabric. A tie clip (or tie bar) clips onto the tie and shirt without piercing.
Their peak popularity was from the late 19th century through the early-to-mid 20th century, particularly during the Edwardian era.
Yes, though rare and informal. It means to fasten or adorn with a stickpin (e.g., 'He stickpinned his ascot').
They are often made from precious metals (gold, silver) and may feature gemstones (diamonds, pearls), enamel, or other decorative materials.
A decorative straight pin with a gemstone, decorative head, or ornament, worn to secure a necktie or ascot to a shirt.
Stickpin is usually formal, historical, fashion in register.
Stickpin: in British English it is pronounced /ˈstɪkpɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈstɪkˌpɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific. Figurative: 'stickpin mustache' (a thin, pointed mustache).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a STICK (straight, thin piece) and a PIN. It's a straight pin you stick through your tie.
Conceptual Metaphor
PRECISION/FORMALITY IS A SHARP, DECORATIVE OBJECT ("His manner was as precise as a diamond stickpin").
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'stickpin' primarily used for?