pedicure
PED-ih-kyoor
/ˈpɛdɪkjʊər/
A cosmetic treatment of the feet and toenails, involving cleaning, shaping, and exfoliating.
A pedicure focuses on the feet, often including callus removal and foot massage alongside nail grooming.
The story behind the word. Coined in the mid-19th century as a natural counterpart to manicure, pedicure combines the Latin 'pes' (genitive 'pedis', meaning foot) and 'cura' (meaning care). It literally translates to the care of the feet.
Word relationships
- foot treatment: Foot treatment is a general term for any therapy applied to the feet, while a pedicure is specifically cosmetic and nail-focused.
Commonly confused with
- manicure: A pedicure is for the feet, whereas a manicure is for the hands.
Word family
- pedicurist (noun): A person who gives pedicures professionally.
Collocations
- get a pedicure
- spa pedicure
- pedicure basin
- pedicure scrub
Example sentences
- "Before wearing her new sandals, she went to the spa for a relaxing pedicure." A summer preparation guide for outdoor activities.
Memory hook
PEDicure is for your feet, just like PEDals on a bicycle are pushed by your feet. Foot care.
When not to use
Do not use this term when referring to treatments for the hands.
Fun facts
- In ancient Egypt, the status of individuals was often indicated by the color of their pedicure, with royalty wearing bright red.
- Modern pedicures often use volcanic stones or paraffin wax to deeply moisturize the feet.
Explore more words
reflexology, Grooming, Exfoliate, aesthetician, dermatology, clippers
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