: a support (as of hoops) worn especially in the 16th century beneath a skirt to expand it at the hipline
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebHeavily influenced by key members of the English royal court, Tudor style is distinguished for its square neckline and structured bodices, as well as the Spanish farthingale, a conical undergarment that gave volume to skirts. Frances Solá-santiago, refinery29.com, 23 Sep. 2021 The photograph showcases Diana in traditional Elizabethan dress, including a full skirt with a farthingale underneath and a high starched collar, a more casual version of a ruff. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 5 Sep. 2019 Freed from the hassle of manipulating doublets and farthingales, the performers can move naturally and easily. James Jorden, New York Times, 11 Aug. 2017 The bright and complex costumes, with some characters in apparel like Elizabethan farthingales, are equally picturesque. Alastair Macaulay, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2016
Word History
Etymology
modification of Middle French verdugale, from Old Spanish verdugado, from verdugo young shoot of a tree, from verde green, from Latin viridis — more at verdant