alteration
awl-tuh-RAY-shun
/ˌɔːl.təˈreɪ.ʃən/
A change or modification made to a garment to improve its fit, appearance, or length.
Refers specifically to modifying an existing finished or semi-finished garment rather than crafting one from scratch.
The story behind the word. The term enters English in the late 14th century via Old French from Late Latin 'alteratio'. Its root 'alter' means 'other', signifying the process of making a garment into something slightly different from its original form.
Word relationships
- modification: Modification is a general term for any change, whereas alteration specifically implies adjusting fit or proportions in clothing.
- adjustment: Adjustment suggests a quick, small fix, while alteration can involve complex structural changes to fabric panels.
- preservation: Preservation keeps a garment exactly in its original state without making any structural changes.
Commonly confused with
- repair: Repair fixes broken elements like tears or holes, whereas alteration changes the dimensions to fit a wearer.
Word family
- alter (verb): To make structural adjustments to a garment's fit.
- unaltered (adjective): Remaining in its original dimensions without changes.
Collocations
- minor alteration
- garment alteration
- tailoring alteration
- require alterations
Example sentences
- "The bride brought her grandmother's vintage dress to the studio for minor alterations before the wedding." Professional tailoring
- "She spent the afternoon at her sewing table, making an alteration to the waist of her suit." Literature citation
Memory hook
Think of ALTERing a dress so it becomes an ALTERnative fit. Make it fit an-OTHER way.
When not to use
Do not use when describing the creation of a completely new garment from raw fabric; use drafting or tailoring instead.
Fun facts
- In military history, standard uniform alterations were often performed in the field by soldiers using portable sewing kits called 'housewives'.
Explore more words
Tailoring, modification, renovation, amendment, amend, Adjustment
Also appears in
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