shoelace
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʃˈuːleɪs/
US
- /ˈʃuˌleɪs/
Description
- cord for tying shoes
- shoe string
- lace for a shoe
- shoe fastener
- tying cord
A shoelace is the cord that keeps a shoe closed and secure on your foot. It usually goes through small holes or loops in the shoe and is tied in a knot or bow. Most are made from cotton, nylon, or polyester. It is a small everyday thing, but it matters a lot when you walk, run, play, or go to school. If one comes loose or breaks, your shoe can feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
A shoelace is a thin cord used to fasten a shoe. It passes through eyelets or hooks on the shoe and is tied to help the shoe stay firm and comfortable on the foot. Shoelaces can be flat or round, short or long, and they are often made from cotton, nylon, polyester, or leather. Many have small plastic or metal tips on the ends to stop them from fraying and to make them easier to push through the holes.
In daily life, shoelaces are part of many kinds of footwear, especially sneakers, boots, and casual shoes. People tie them in different ways depending on comfort, sport, or style. A loose one can make walking harder and may even cause someone to trip, so learning how to tie it well is an important skill for children and a normal habit for adults.
The word can also appear in a few related expressions. For example, a "shoestring budget" means a very small amount of money. Even so, the main meaning is still the simple, physical cord on a shoe. It is a basic object, but it plays an important part in everyday movement and comfort.
Examples
- 1
Getting ready
Bend down and tie your shoelaces before we leave.
- 2
Loose shoelace
My left shoelace came undone while I was crossing the street.
Phrase
came undone
became loose and untied
- 3
Hiking
One of his shoelaces snapped during the hike.
- 4
Running shoes
I bought longer shoelaces for my running shoes.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- shoelacenoun
Forms
- shoelacespluralnoun