crossword clue cummerbund – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "cummerbund," you've come to the right place. Our comprehensive guide provides solutions of various lengths, along with explanations to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "crossword clue cummerbund" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SASH: A wide band of fabric worn around the waist, often a component or synonym for a cummerbund.
BAND: A more generic term that can refer to the strip of material that a cummerbund is.
9 Letters
WAISTBAND: A band of material forming the waist of a garment, which a cummerbund essentially functions as decoratively.
11 Letters
PLEATEDSASH: This answer highlights the cummerbund's distinctive characteristic folds and its function as a sash.
More About "crossword clue cummerbund"
A cummerbund is a pleated sash worn around the waist, typically with a single-breasted tuxedo. It's a key accessory in traditional black-tie attire, designed to cover the unsightly waist of the trousers and the potentially untidy tucked-in shirt. The pleats are traditionally worn facing upwards, originally serving as convenient pockets for theatre tickets or other small items.
Originating from India, where British military officers adopted the "kamarband" (meaning loin-band in Persian) as part of their informal wear, the cummerbund transitioned into Western formalwear in the mid-19th century. Made typically of silk, satin, or velvet, it adds a touch of elegance and uniformity to evening dress, distinguishing it from day wear.
In crosswords, "cummerbund" often appears as a clue that tests knowledge of formal attire or challenges solvers to find synonyms for waist accessories or descriptive terms related to its appearance or function. Its unique spelling and cultural origins make it a fascinating word for puzzle creators.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Context: For clues like "cummerbund," think about broader categories or direct synonyms. Is it looking for "SASH," or perhaps a more descriptive "WAISTBAND"?
- Letter Count is King: Always check the number of letters required. This is your most powerful tool for narrowing down possibilities, especially with words that have multiple potential answers.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes clues lead to less common definitions or related concepts. A cummerbund might also be clued by its material (e.g., SILK), its setting (e.g., TUXEDO), or its origin (e.g., INDIA-INSPIRED).
- Use Intersecting Clues: Don't get stuck on one clue. The letters from intersecting words can quickly reveal or confirm an answer you're struggling with.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cummerbund used for?
A cummerbund is a pleated sash worn around the waist with a tuxedo or other formal wear. Its primary purpose is to cover the waist of the trousers and the shirt, creating a seamless and elegant look, while also providing a visually appealing break between the shirt and trousers.
Where did the word "cummerbund" originate?
The word "cummerbund" comes from the Hindi and Urdu word "kamarband," which itself is derived from the Persian "kamarband," meaning "loin-band." It was adopted into English by British military officers in colonial India in the 17th century.
Are there common crossword synonyms for cummerbund?
Yes, common crossword synonyms or related terms for cummerbund often include "SASH," "BAND," or "WAISTBAND." Clues might also refer to its formal wear context, leading to answers like "TUXEDOITEM" or general terms for waist accessories.