Necklace: Definition and Synonyms
necklace – Definition and Part of Speech
A necklace is a noun referring to an ornamental piece of jewelry that is worn around the neck. It typically consists of a string or chain into which are suspended beads, gemstones, metalwork, or other decorative items. Necklaces can range from simple, delicate designs to elaborate pieces adorned with precious stones and metals.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choker | A necklace worn close around the neck, often snugly. | “She wore a pearl choker that elegantly framed her face.” | Formal/Casual |
| Pendant | Often refers to the piece hanging from a necklace, but can also describe the whole. | “The pendant captured light beautifully with its intricate design.” | Informal/Formal |
| Torc | A rigid circular or figure-eight shaped neckpiece made of metal, often Celtic in origin. | “At the exhibition, an ancient bronze torc was displayed as a testament to Celtic artistry.” | Academic/Formal |
| Collar | Can refer to both traditional necklaces and broader decorative neck pieces, such as dog collars or military decorations. | “The officer’s insignia collar denoted his rank with dignity.” | Business/Informal |
Usage Notes
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Choker: Often used in contexts involving fashion and design. Suitable for describing specific types of neckwear, especially those worn closely around the neck.
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Pendant: While primarily referring to the hanging part of a necklace, this term is versatile enough to be used interchangeably with “necklace” when emphasizing the central decorative piece.
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Torc: Best utilized in historical or cultural discussions where the focus might be on ancient artifacts or specific styles like those found in Celtic cultures.
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Collar: While commonly associated with pets or military contexts, it can describe any neck adornment, offering flexibility in both casual and formal settings.
Common Pitfalls
One common pitfall is using “pendant” to refer exclusively to the main decorative piece of a necklace without acknowledging its broader definition. Additionally, people might confuse “torc” for any type of rigid necklace, whereas it specifically refers to historical or cultural pieces, often Celtic in origin.
Final Recap
In summary, while necklace is a broad term encompassing various types of neck ornaments, each synonym provides nuanced meanings that can be used in specific contexts:
- Choker: Descriptive of snug-fitting neckwear.
- Pendant: Focuses on the central decorative element but can also imply the whole necklace.
- Torc: Refers to a particular historical or cultural type of rigid neckpiece.
- Collar: Versatile, applicable in both literal and figurative contexts.
To truly expand your vocabulary, try incorporating these synonyms into different scenarios. Write sentences using each term, and consider how their subtle differences might affect the meaning conveyed. Experimenting with context will help you choose the most appropriate synonym for any given situation.