wristband
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rˈɪstbænd/
US
- /rˈɪstbænd/
Description
- Band worn on the wrist
- Sweatband
- ID band
- Event band
A wristband is a band of cloth, plastic, rubber, or another material that you wear around your wrist. It can be practical, like a soft one used in sports to absorb sweat, or it can be used for identification, such as in hospitals, concerts, or festivals. Some are also worn to show support for a cause or to match a style.
It is usually simple in shape, but it can still mean something special. A colored band can show membership, access, support, or a personal connection. Even a small band around the wrist can say a lot.
A wristband is a band or strap designed to be worn around the wrist. While often thought of as a fashion accessory—like a beaded bracelet or a leather cuff—wristbands serve a surprisingly diverse range of purposes. They've evolved from simple adornments into practical tools and even powerful symbols.
Today, you're likely to see them in sports, healthcare, entertainment, and everyday life. Athletes wear sweat-absorbing ones during tennis matches, basketball games, or workouts. In hospitals, plastic or paper versions help identify patients and share important information such as names or medical alerts. At concerts, clubs, and festivals, they are often used to show entry, age status, or special access.
Wristbands can also be about expression. People wear silicone ones to support a charity or campaign, woven ones as friendship tokens, and decorative ones simply because they like the look. Some are temporary and practical, while others are kept for a long time as reminders of an event, a relationship, or a belief.
The material of a wristband can vary wildly: fabric, plastic, rubber, metal, leather, or beads. Each material lends itself to different uses and aesthetics. A simple piece of string tied around the wrist might be a reminder of a promise, while an elaborate gold bracelet could signify wealth or status.
So, whether it's keeping sweat at bay, showing support for a cause, or simply adding a touch of style, the humble wristband is a versatile accessory with a surprisingly rich history and a powerful ability to communicate who we are and what we believe in.
Examples
- 1
Festival entry
We got our wristbands at the festival gate.
- 2
Re-entry rule
Don’t take your wristband off, or they won’t let you back in.
- 3
Hospital ID
The nurse checked the child’s wristband before the operation.
- 4
Charity campaign
Everyone on the team wore red wristbands for the charity campaign.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- wristbandnoun
Forms
- wristbandspluralnoun