stripe
stripe
UK[straɪp]US[straɪp]
n
a long, narrow band of a different color or texture from the surface on either side of it
n
a chevron or other badge worn on a uniform to indicate rank, length of service, or membership of a military or other organization
v
to mark with stripes
Etymology
the word "stripe" entered english in the late 15th century from middle dutch or middle low german 'strīpe', which meant a line, a streak, or a strip. its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be connected to proto-germanic roots related to marking or streaking. the core concept of a linear mark has remained remarkably stable, evolving from a general term for a line to specifically denote a contrasting band of color or texture. this semantic journey reflects a process of specification, where a broad term for a mark became the standard word for a distinct, often decorative or indicative, linear pattern.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is derived from middle dutch or middle low german 'strīpe', meaning a line or a streak.
Examples
the tiger's orange fur has distinctive black stripes.
he earned a new stripe on his uniform after five years of service.
the craftsman used a special tool to stripe the ceramic vase with fine gold lines.