Cette page dans ta langue

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A1 noun #3,829 le plus courant 14 min de lecture

sock

Top 3,829

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces sock en 30 secondes

Explication sock in your Level:

At the A1 level, a sock is a very basic word for a common piece of clothing. You learn it along with other clothes like 'shirt', 'pants', and 'shoes'. At this level, you should know that you wear socks on your feet and that they usually come in pairs. You might use simple sentences like 'I have white socks' or 'My socks are in the drawer.' You should also be able to ask for them in a shop: 'Where are the socks?' The focus is on the physical object and its color or location. It is a fundamental part of the vocabulary for daily routines, like getting dressed in the morning. You will mostly see the plural form 'socks' because we usually talk about both of them together. If you lose one, you have 'a sock'. Understanding this basic noun is essential for describing what you are wearing every day.

At the A2 level, you can start to describe your socks with more detail. You might talk about the material, such as 'cotton socks' or 'wool socks'. You can also describe patterns, like 'striped socks' or 'spotted socks'. At this level, you should be familiar with the phrase 'a pair of socks' and use it correctly in sentences. You might also use the word in the context of household chores, like 'I am washing my socks' or 'I need to find the matching sock.' You can describe where you buy them and how much they cost. You are also beginning to understand that there are different types of socks for different activities, like 'running socks' or 'winter socks'. Your ability to use adjectives with the noun 'sock' becomes more varied and accurate.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the B1 level, you can use the word 'sock' in more complex situations and start to encounter some common idioms. You might discuss the quality or features of socks, such as 'breathable', 'durable', or 'comfortable'. You can explain why you prefer one type over another, perhaps for hiking or for a formal event. This level introduces the first metaphorical uses, such as 'to pull your socks up', meaning to start working harder or improving your behavior. You can also handle more specific shopping scenarios, like asking for 'ankle socks' or 'knee-high socks'. You might also talk about the problems with socks, like 'having a hole in your sock' or 'losing a sock in the laundry', and describe these situations using a wider range of tenses and structures.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable with several idiomatic expressions involving 'sock'. You will recognize 'knock your socks off' as a way to say something is very impressive. You might use 'put a sock in it' when someone is being too loud, although you understand it is informal. At this level, you can also use 'sock' as a verb meaning to hit, although you know it's a bit slangy. You can discuss the technical aspects of socks, such as 'moisture-wicking properties' or 'arch support'. You are capable of following a detailed conversation or reading a text about the history of clothing where socks are mentioned. Your understanding of the word extends beyond the simple garment to its various roles in language and culture, including its use in compound words like 'windsock'.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'sock' includes its more subtle and less common uses. You might encounter the word in literary contexts where it is used to create specific imagery or to reflect a character's social status. You understand the nuance between 'socks', 'stockings', and 'hosiery' perfectly and can use them with precision. You are familiar with more obscure idioms and the historical etymology of the word, knowing it comes from the Latin 'soccus'. You can participate in complex discussions about the textile industry, including the environmental impact of synthetic sock production. You also understand the phrasal verb 'to sock away' (meaning to save money) and can use it naturally in a conversation about finances. Your grasp of the word is sophisticated, allowing you to use it both literally and figuratively with ease.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of the word 'sock' and all its linguistic variations. You can appreciate the use of the word in puns, wordplay, and high-level rhetoric. You might explore the cultural history of the sock in depth, from ancient Egyptian split-toe socks to modern high-tech compression gear. You can use the word as a verb or a noun in any register, from the most informal slang to formal academic writing about fashion history. You are aware of the subtle differences in how the word is used across different English-speaking regions, such as the UK and the US. Your ability to use the word in idiomatic expressions is flawless, and you can even invent creative metaphors involving socks that sound natural to native speakers. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a versatile tool in your extensive linguistic repertoire.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

sock en 30 secondes

A sock is a basic clothing item worn on the foot inside a shoe to provide comfort, warmth, and protection against friction and moisture.
Commonly made from cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers, socks are essential for daily hygiene and preventing blisters while walking or exercising.
The word 'sock' is most often used in its plural form, 'socks', and is frequently paired with verbs like 'put on' and 'take off'.
Beyond clothing, 'sock' appears in idioms like 'knock your socks off' (to impress) and can also mean to hit someone hard in informal English.

The word sock refers to a fundamental item of human clothing designed to be worn on the feet. At its core, a sock serves as a protective barrier between the skin of the foot and the interior of a shoe. This simple garment is typically manufactured from knitted materials such as cotton, wool, nylon, or various synthetic blends. The primary functions of a sock are to provide warmth, absorb perspiration, prevent blisters by reducing friction, and offer a layer of cushioning that enhances comfort during movement. In modern fashion, socks have evolved from purely functional undergarments into significant style statements, available in an infinite array of colors, patterns, and lengths.

Material Composition: Socks can be made from natural fibers like merino wool, which is excellent for temperature regulation, or cotton, which is breathable and soft for daily wear. Synthetic fibers like elastane are often added to ensure the sock stretches and maintains its shape over time.

I need to buy a new pair of thick wool socks before our hiking trip to the mountains this winter.

People use socks in almost every aspect of daily life. In formal settings, dress socks—often thinner and darker—are worn with leather shoes and suits. In athletic contexts, sports socks are engineered with moisture-wicking technology to keep the feet dry during intense physical activity. Even at home, many people wear 'slipper socks' with rubber grips on the bottom to prevent slipping on wooden or tiled floors. The versatility of the sock makes it one of the most common items in any wardrobe, transcending age, gender, and culture. Beyond the physical object, the word 'sock' can also appear in various contexts, such as describing the sound of a heavy blow in older literature, though its primary use remains the article of clothing.

Type: Ankle Socks: These are short socks that end right at the ankle bone. They are popular for casual wear with sneakers and are often chosen for their low profile, making them less visible than traditional crew socks.

The cultural significance of socks is surprisingly deep. In many Western cultures, the 'Christmas stocking' is essentially a large, decorative sock hung by the fireplace to be filled with small gifts. In Japan and other parts of Asia where shoes are removed before entering a house, the appearance and cleanliness of one's socks are of heightened importance, as they are visible to others throughout the day. Furthermore, the modern trend of 'statement socks' allows individuals to express personality in professional environments where the rest of their attire must remain conservative. Whether it is a bright polka-dot pattern or a subtle grey rib, the choice of sock reflects both functional needs and personal identity.

He wore bright red socks to the meeting to show his creative side.

Functional Use: Compression: Compression socks are specialized garments designed to apply pressure to the lower legs, helping to maintain blood flow and reduce swelling and discomfort during long flights or periods of standing.

After the laundry was done, she spent an hour matching every sock with its partner.

The baby lost one tiny blue sock while we were walking in the park.

You shouldn't walk outside in just your socks because they will get dirty and wet.

Using the word sock correctly in English involves understanding its grammatical behavior as a countable noun and its common pluralization. Most frequently, you will refer to 'socks' in the plural because they are almost always worn as a pair. If you are talking about just one, you use the singular 'sock'. For example, you might say, 'I can't find my left sock.' When referring to the set, you use 'a pair of socks'. This structure is essential for clarity, especially when shopping or doing laundry. Verbs that commonly accompany 'sock' include 'put on', 'take off', 'wear', 'change', and 'knit'.

The 'Pair' Structure: Always use 'a pair of socks' when referring to the two matching items. Example: 'I bought three pairs of socks today.' Using 'three socks' would imply three individual, possibly mismatched items.

Please put your dirty socks in the laundry basket instead of leaving them on the floor.

In more advanced usage, 'sock' can function as a verb, meaning to hit someone or something hard. While this is less common in everyday conversation than the noun form, it appears in phrases like 'to sock someone in the jaw'. Additionally, the phrasal verb 'to sock something away' means to save money for future use, often in a hidden or secure place. This metaphorical use draws on the historical practice of hiding coins inside a sock for safekeeping. When using 'sock' as a noun to describe clothing, adjectives usually precede it to specify the type: 'woolen socks', 'thermal socks', 'mismatched socks', or 'knee-high socks'.

Descriptive Adjectives: Common adjectives include: 'cotton', 'wool', 'thick', 'thin', 'clean', 'dirty', 'smelly', 'patterned', 'plain', and 'mismatched'. Using these helps provide specific details about the garment's condition or style.

Sentence complexity can vary from simple A1-level statements to intricate C2-level observations. At a basic level, one might say, 'The socks are blue.' At a more complex level, a writer might observe, 'The protagonist’s threadbare socks, riddled with holes and smelling of damp earth, were a testament to his long journey across the rugged terrain.' Notice how the noun 'socks' remains central, but the surrounding language provides deep context. It is also important to note that 'sock' is used in many compound nouns, such as 'windsock' (an instrument for showing wind direction) and 'puppetsock' (though usually 'sock puppet').

The athlete changed into dry socks during the halftime break to avoid getting blisters.

Verb Phrases: 'To pull up your socks' is an idiom meaning to make an effort to improve your performance. 'To knock someone's socks off' means to impress them immensely.

She was so surprised by the news that it practically knocked her socks off.

He carefully socked away a portion of his paycheck every month for his retirement fund.

Don't forget to pack enough socks for the week-long camping trip.

In the real world, you will encounter the word sock in a variety of everyday environments. The most common place is within the home, specifically during morning routines or laundry tasks. You might hear a parent telling a child, 'Go put your socks on,' or a partner asking, 'Have you seen my other black sock?' In these domestic settings, the word is ubiquitous and fundamental. Another frequent location is at the department store or clothing boutique. Signs will point you toward the 'Hosiery and Socks' department, and sales associates might ask if you are looking for specific types like 'no-show' or 'crew' socks.

Retail Context: In shops, you'll see labels like 'Multipack', 'Reinforced Heel', and 'Moisture-wicking'. These terms describe the quantity and technical features of the socks being sold.

The store is having a 'buy one, get one free' sale on all athletic socks this weekend.

Sports and fitness environments are also prime locations for hearing this word. Coaches might instruct players to 'pull your socks up'—which can be both literal (adjusting their uniform) and metaphorical (telling them to work harder). In hiking or skiing contexts, the quality of one's socks is a frequent topic of conversation because the wrong pair can lead to frozen toes or painful blisters. You might hear an experienced hiker say, 'Always carry a spare pair of dry socks in your backpack.' This practical advice highlights the importance of the garment in extreme or active conditions. Even in medical settings, doctors might discuss 'compression socks' with patients who have circulation issues.

Sports Commentary: In soccer (football) broadcasts, commentators might mention a player having 'holes in their socks'—a modern trend among professionals to relieve pressure on calf muscles.

In popular culture and media, socks appear in various idioms and humorous contexts. You might hear the phrase 'put a sock in it' in a movie or TV show when one character wants another to stop talking. This colorful expression originates from the idea of literally stuffing a sock into a gramophone horn to quiet the music. Comedians often joke about the 'mystery of the missing sock' in the dryer, a relatable trope that resonates with audiences worldwide. Additionally, in the world of arts and crafts, 'sock puppets' are a well-known concept, where a simple sock is transformed into a character with the addition of button eyes and a felt tongue. This demonstrates how the word and the object are woven into the fabric of daily life and creative expression.

The children made colorful sock puppets to perform a play for their parents.

Idiomatic Speech: If someone tells you to 'put a sock in it', they are rudely asking you to be quiet. It's a very informal and somewhat old-fashioned British expression.

He was so loud that his roommate finally yelled, 'Put a sock in it!'

The laundry machine seems to eat one sock every single time I do a wash.

I prefer wearing cotton socks because they feel more breathable in the summer heat.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word sock is confusing it with other types of legwear, such as 'stockings' or 'tights'. While all three cover the feet, they are distinct garments. A sock is typically shorter and thicker, often made of knitted fabric. Stockings are usually thinner, sheerer, and extend further up the leg, often associated with formal or traditional feminine attire. Tights cover the entire lower body from the waist down. Another common error involves the pluralization and the use of the word 'pair'. Learners might say 'I have two sock' instead of 'I have two socks' or 'I have a pair of socks'. Remember that 'socks' is the plural form and is almost always used when referring to the clothing for both feet.

Sock vs. Stocking: A sock is usually casual and ends below the knee. A stocking is often sheer, formal, and goes above the knee. Don't call your gym socks 'stockings'!

Incorrect: I am wearing a black sock on my feet. (Unless you only have one foot!)

Another area of confusion is the pronunciation of 'sock' versus 'suck'. While they might sound similar to non-native speakers, the vowel sound is quite different. 'Sock' uses a short 'o' sound (/sɒk/ or /sɑːk/), while 'suck' uses a short 'u' sound (/sʌk/). Confusing these can lead to embarrassing misunderstandings. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the idiomatic uses of 'sock'. For instance, 'pull your socks up' has nothing to do with physical clothing; it is a command to work harder. Using this literally when someone's socks are already high can cause confusion. Similarly, the verb 'to sock' (to hit) is very informal and should be used carefully in professional settings.

Singular vs. Plural Usage: Use 'sock' when you find one individual item. Use 'socks' for the general category or the pair. Example: 'I found a stray sock under the bed, but I need a clean pair of socks for work.'

Furthermore, the spelling of 'socks' is occasionally confused with 'sox'. While 'Sox' is famously used in the names of baseball teams like the Chicago White Sox or the Boston Red Sox, this is a stylized, non-standard spelling. In all other writing, you should always use 'socks'. In technical or textile contexts, you might see the term 'hosiery', which is a broader category including socks, stockings, and tights. However, in daily conversation, 'hosiery' sounds overly formal and slightly dated. Stick to 'socks' for your everyday footwear. Finally, be careful with the phrase 'old sock'; while it can be a term of endearment for an old friend in some British dialects, it can also be taken literally as an insult regarding hygiene!

Correct: I need to buy some new socks. (Standard spelling for the clothing item.)

Collocation Error: Don't say 'shoes and stockings' if you are wearing sneakers. Say 'shoes and socks'. 'Stockings' implies a very different style of dress.

Incorrect: He gave me a sock in the eye. (While grammatically possible as 'a hit', it's better to say 'he socked me in the eye' or 'he punched me'.)

I always lose one sock during the drying cycle, and I never find it again.

These socks are too small; they are squeezing my toes.

While sock is the most common term for this garment, several related words describe similar items or provide more specific alternatives depending on the context. 'Stocking' is perhaps the closest relative, but as previously mentioned, it usually refers to a longer, thinner, and often more formal item. In the UK, you might encounter the word 'hosiery' as a collective term for socks, stockings, and tights, particularly in retail environments. 'Tights' (or 'pantyhose' in the US) cover the entire leg and the lower torso, whereas socks only cover the foot and varying parts of the lower leg. Understanding these nuances helps in selecting the right word for the right occasion.

Sock vs. Slipper: A sock is a soft, knitted item worn inside a shoe. A slipper is a soft shoe worn indoors without the need for additional footwear, though you can wear socks inside slippers for extra warmth.

She preferred wearing thick socks instead of slippers when she was relaxing at home.

For specific types of socks, more descriptive terms are often used. 'Booties' usually refers to very short, often thick socks for babies or specialized indoor footwear. 'Liners' or 'no-show socks' are very thin socks designed to be invisible when wearing low-cut shoes like loafers or boat shoes. In a sports context, 'cleat socks' or 'tubes' might be used, the latter referring to the long, unshaped socks popular in the 1970s and 80s. When discussing the material, 'woollens' can sometimes be used as a shorthand for wool socks, especially in colder climates. In the realm of fashion, 'anklets' can refer to socks that reach only to the ankle, often with a decorative cuff.

Sock vs. Bootie: Socks are standard for all ages. Booties are typically soft, handmade, or knitted footwear for infants who are not yet walking, or heavy, insulated 'socks' for extreme cold.

In a broader linguistic sense, synonyms for the verb 'to sock' (to hit) include 'punch', 'strike', 'clout', or 'wallop'. These are used in very different contexts than the clothing item. In terms of footwear history, 'buskins' and 'puttees' are archaic terms for types of leg coverings that preceded the modern sock. While you won't hear these in a modern clothing store, you might encounter them in historical novels or museums. Today, the word 'sock' remains the undisputed standard, but knowing these alternatives allows for more precise communication, whether you're describing a baby's first footwear or a specialized piece of athletic equipment.

The hiker swapped his wet cotton socks for a dry pair of merino wool liners.

Sock vs. Leg Warmers: Leg warmers cover the calf but usually do not have a foot part. Socks cover the entire foot. You can wear leg warmers over your socks for extra warmth.

Instead of traditional socks, she wore sheer stockings with her evening gown.

The baby's knitted booties were much thicker and warmer than regular socks.

He preferred low-cut socks that didn't peek out from his sneakers.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

In ancient times, socks were often made from matted animal hair or leather. The earliest known knitted socks were found in Egypt and date back to the 3rd-5th centuries AD; they featured a split toe specifically designed to be worn with sandals!

Guide de prononciation

UK /sɒk/

US /sɑːk/

Single syllable word; the stress is naturally on the entire word.

Rime avec

clock rock dock lock block shock stock knock

Erreurs fréquentes

Confusing 'sock' with 'suck' (/sʌk/), which has a different vowel sound.
Failing to pronounce the final 'k' clearly.
Pronouncing the 'o' like the 'o' in 'go' (/soʊk/ - which is 'soak').

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

The word is short and follows standard phonetic rules, making it easy to recognize.

Écriture 1/5

Simple spelling (s-o-c-k) that is easy to memorize.

Expression orale 1/5

Easy to pronounce, though the short 'o' can vary by dialect.

Écoute 1/5

Distinctive sound, though it may be confused with 'suck' or 'soak' by beginners.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

foot shoe cloth wear pair

Apprends ensuite

stocking slipper drawer laundry material

Avancé

hosiery compression moisture-wicking darning argyle

Grammaire à connaître

Pluralization of Clothing Items

Items like socks, pants, and shoes are usually plural because they come in pairs.

Using 'A Pair of'

We say 'a pair of socks' to treat the two items as a single unit.

Adjective Word Order

Opinion/Size/Color/Material: 'Beautiful large red cotton socks'.

Phrasal Verbs with Clothing

Use 'put on' to dress and 'take off' to undress.

Countable Nouns

You can say 'one sock' or 'two socks', unlike uncountable nouns like 'water'.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Exemples par niveau

I have two white socks.

J'ai deux chaussettes blanches.

Uses plural 'socks' with the number 'two'.

Where is my blue sock?

Où est ma chaussette bleue ?

Uses singular 'sock' because only one is missing.

Put on your socks.

Mets tes chaussettes.

Imperative sentence using the phrasal verb 'put on'.

These socks are small.

Ces chaussettes sont petites.

Uses 'these' and 'are' because 'socks' is plural.

I like your red socks.

J'aime tes chaussettes rouges.

Adjective 'red' comes before the noun 'socks'.

The socks are in the drawer.

Les chaussettes sont dans le tiroir.

Preposition 'in' shows the location.

She has a pair of socks.

Elle a une paire de chaussettes.

The phrase 'a pair of' is used for two matching items.

Do you wear socks?

Est-ce que tu portes des chaussettes ?

Present simple question using 'do'.

I bought three pairs of cotton socks.

J'ai acheté trois paires de chaussettes en coton.

Specifies the material 'cotton'.

He is wearing striped socks today.

Il porte des chaussettes à rayures aujourd'hui.

Uses 'striped' as a descriptive adjective.

My socks have holes in them.

Mes chaussettes ont des trous.

Describes the condition of the socks.

Can you help me match these socks?

Peux-tu m'aider à assortir ces chaussettes ?

The verb 'match' refers to finding pairs.

I need warm socks for the winter.

J'ai besoin de chaussettes chaudes pour l'hiver.

Adjective 'warm' describes the purpose.

She lost a sock in the washing machine.

Elle a perdu une chaussette dans la machine à laver.

Past simple tense 'lost'.

These wool socks are very comfortable.

Ces chaussettes en laine sont très confortables.

Compound noun 'wool socks'.

He took off his wet socks.

Il a enlevé ses chaussettes mouillées.

Phrasal verb 'take off' means to remove clothing.

You really need to pull your socks up if you want to pass this exam.

Tu dois vraiment faire un effort si tu veux réussir cet examen.

Idiomatic use of 'pull your socks up'.

I prefer ankle socks when I go running.

Je préfère les socquettes quand je vais courir.

Specific term 'ankle socks'.

The store sells a wide variety of patterned socks.

Le magasin vend une grande variété de chaussettes à motifs.

'Wide variety of' is a common B1 collocation.

She knitted a beautiful pair of socks for her grandson.

Elle a tricoté une belle paire de chaussettes pour son petit-fils.

Verb 'knitted' relates to the creation of socks.

Make sure your socks aren't too tight around the ankles.

Assure-toi que tes chaussettes ne sont pas trop serrées aux chevilles.

Usage of 'too' for negative excess.

I always carry an extra pair of dry socks when I go hiking.

J'emporte toujours une paire de chaussettes sèches supplémentaire quand je pars en randonnée.

Adjective 'extra' and 'dry' provide context.

He was embarrassed because he was wearing mismatched socks.

Il était embarrassé parce qu'il portait des chaussettes dépareillées.

'Mismatched' describes socks that don't match.

These compression socks help with blood circulation during long flights.

Ces chaussettes de contention aident à la circulation sanguine pendant les longs vols.

Technical term 'compression socks'.

The special effects in that movie will absolutely knock your socks off.

Les effets spéciaux de ce film vont absolument t'époustoufler.

Idiom 'knock your socks off' means to impress.

Oh, put a sock in it! I'm trying to concentrate on my work.

Oh, tais-toi ! J'essaie de me concentrer sur mon travail.

Informal idiom 'put a sock in it' meaning 'be quiet'.

He has been socking away money for years to buy his dream car.

Il met de l'argent de côté depuis des années pour acheter la voiture de ses rêves.

Phrasal verb 'sock away' means to save money.

The boxer managed to sock his opponent right on the chin.

Le boxeur a réussi à frapper son adversaire en plein menton.

Verb 'sock' meaning to hit hard.

The windsock at the airport indicated a strong breeze from the north.

La manche à air de l'aéroport indiquait une brise légère venant du nord.

Compound noun 'windsock'.

She decided to wear knee-high socks with her plaid skirt.

Elle a décidé de porter des chaussettes hautes avec sa jupe écossaise.

Compound adjective 'knee-high'.

The quality of the material is essential for moisture-wicking socks.

La qualité du matériau est essentielle pour les chaussettes qui évacuent l'humidité.

Compound adjective 'moisture-wicking'.

He's such an old sock; he’s been my best friend since primary school.

C'est un vieil ami ; c'est mon meilleur ami depuis l'école primaire.

Informal British idiom 'old sock' for a friend.

The protagonist's threadbare socks were a poignant symbol of his poverty.

Les chaussettes élimées du protagoniste étaient un symbole poignant de sa pauvreté.

Adjective 'threadbare' adds literary depth.

The hikers were warned about the dangers of trench foot if they didn't keep their socks dry.

Les randonneurs ont été avertis des dangers du pied de tranchée s'ils ne gardaient pas leurs chaussettes au sec.

Contextual link between socks and medical conditions.

The company specializes in the manufacture of high-performance hosiery and technical socks.

L'entreprise se spécialise dans la fabrication de bonneterie de haute performance et de chaussettes techniques.

Use of 'hosiery' as a formal category.

He had a substantial amount of cash socked away in various offshore accounts.

Il avait une somme importante d'argent liquide cachée dans divers comptes offshore.

Advanced use of 'socked away' in a financial context.

The subtle argyle pattern on his socks added a touch of sophistication to his outfit.

Le motif à losanges subtil de ses chaussettes ajoutait une touche de sophistication à sa tenue.

Specific vocabulary for patterns ('argyle').

The sheer variety of socks available today is a testament to the diversification of the fashion industry.

La grande variété de chaussettes disponibles aujourd'hui témoigne de la diversification de l'industrie de la mode.

High-level sentence structure.

Don't just stand there like a spare at a wedding; pull your socks up and help us!

Ne reste pas là à ne rien faire ; remue-toi et aide-nous !

Combined idioms for rhetorical effect.

The ancient Romans wore a type of light slipper called a 'soccus', from which the modern word 'sock' is derived.

Les anciens Romains portaient un type de chausson léger appelé « soccus », dont dérive le mot moderne « chaussette ».

Etymological explanation within a sentence.

The intricate weave of the merino wool socks provided unparalleled insulation against the sub-zero temperatures.

Le tissage complexe des chaussettes en laine mérinos offrait une isolation inégalée contre les températures négatives.

Precise, academic-style vocabulary.

His argument was so compelling that it effectively socked it to the opposition, leaving them speechless.

Son argument était si convaincant qu'il a effectivement porté un coup à l'opposition, la laissant sans voix.

Idiom 'sock it to someone' meaning to attack or address forcefully.

The meticulous darning of her grandfather's socks reflected a bygone era of frugality and care.

Le reprisage méticuleux des chaussettes de son grand-père reflétait une époque révolue de frugalité et de soin.

Specific verb 'darning' for repairing socks.

The exhibition traced the evolution of the sock from a rudimentary foot-wrap to a sophisticated piece of bio-engineered apparel.

L'exposition retraçait l'évolution de la chaussette, d'un simple enveloppement du pied à un vêtement sophistiqué issu de la bio-ingénierie.

Complex historical and technical narrative.

In the cutthroat world of corporate finance, he was known for having millions socked away in untraceable trusts.

Dans le monde impitoyable de la finance d'entreprise, il était connu pour avoir des millions mis de côté dans des fiducies introuvables.

Metaphorical use in a professional narrative.

The satirical play used a simple sock puppet to lampoon the most powerful politicians of the day.

La pièce satirique utilisait une simple chaussette-marionnette pour parodier les politiciens les plus puissants de l'époque.

Vocabulary like 'lampoon' and 'sock puppet'.

Her collection of vintage hosiery included rare silk socks from the early twentieth century.

Sa collection de bonneterie vintage comprenait de rares chaussettes en soie du début du XXe siècle.

Formal register and specific historical detail.

The athlete's performance was so dominant it really knocked the socks off the spectators and critics alike.

La performance de l'athlète était si dominante qu'elle a vraiment impressionné les spectateurs et les critiques.

Idiom used in a comprehensive, formal context.

Synonymes

footwear hosiery stocking anklet crew sock

Antonymes

barefoot unshod

Collocations courantes

a pair of socks

cotton socks

wool socks

put on socks

take off socks

mismatched socks

ankle socks

knee-high socks

smelly socks

clean socks

Phrases Courantes

sock drawer

— The specific place in a dresser where socks are kept.

I keep my passport hidden at the back of my sock drawer.

sock puppet

— A puppet made from a sock, or a fake online identity.

The troll used a sock puppet account to post mean comments.

stray sock

— A single sock that has lost its matching partner.

I have a whole basket full of stray socks.

thick socks

— Socks made of heavy material for warmth.

You'll need thick socks if you're going skiing.

dress socks

— Thin, formal socks worn with suits or dress shoes.

He wore black dress socks to the wedding.

athletic socks

— Socks designed for sports and physical activity.

These athletic socks have extra cushioning in the heel.

tube socks

— Long, simple socks without a shaped heel.

Tube socks were very popular in the 1980s.

argyle socks

— Socks with a traditional diamond-shaped pattern.

He likes to wear colorful argyle socks to work.

no-show socks

— Very low-cut socks that cannot be seen above the shoe.

I wear no-show socks with my loafers.

thermal socks

— Socks designed to provide extreme warmth in cold weather.

Thermal socks are essential for camping in the snow.

Souvent confondu avec

sock vs stocking

Stockings are longer and thinner than socks.

sock vs shoe

Shoes go on the outside; socks go on the inside.

sock vs slipper

Slippers are indoor shoes, not knitted garments like socks.

Expressions idiomatiques

"knock someone's socks off"

— To impress or surprise someone very much.

Her singing performance really knocked my socks off.

Informal

"pull your socks up"

— To make an effort to improve your work or behavior.

You'll have to pull your socks up if you want to stay on the team.

Informal / British

"put a sock in it"

— A rude way to tell someone to stop talking or be quiet.

Oh, put a sock in it! I'm trying to watch the movie.

Slang / Informal

"sock it to someone"

— To attack or address someone with great energy or force.

The lawyer really socked it to the witness during cross-examination.

Informal

"bless his/her cotton socks"

— An expression of affection or thanks, often for someone being sweet or helpful.

He finished all the dishes for me, bless his cotton socks.

Informal / British

"old sock"

— An old and dear friend (often used as a greeting).

How are you doing, you old sock?

Informal / Old-fashioned British

"sock away"

— To save money for the future.

She managed to sock away enough money for a down payment on a house.

Informal

"wet sock"

— A person who is boring or lacks energy (less common than 'wet blanket').

Don't be such a wet sock; come out and dance with us!

Slang

"to be socked in"

— To be surrounded by thick fog or clouds so that you cannot see or travel.

The airport was completely socked in by fog this morning.

Informal / Aviation

"knock the socks off something"

— To be much better than something else.

This new computer knocks the socks off my old one.

Informal

Facile à confondre

sock vs suck

Similar vowel sound.

'Sock' is clothing; 'suck' is the action of drawing in liquid or air. They have different vowel sounds.

Be careful not to say 'this socks' when you mean 'this sucks'.

sock vs soak

Similar spelling and sound.

'Sock' is a noun; 'soak' is a verb meaning to stay in liquid for a long time.

You might soak your dirty socks in soapy water.

sock vs sack

Similar consonant structure.

A 'sack' is a large bag, while a 'sock' is for your foot.

Put the potatoes in the sack and your socks in the drawer.

sock vs shock

Rhyming sound.

A 'shock' is a sudden surprise or an electrical jolt.

It was a shock to find a hole in my new sock.

sock vs stock

Very similar spelling and rhyming.

'Stock' refers to goods in a store or a type of soup base.

The store has a large stock of winter socks.

Structures de phrases

I have [color] socks.

I have black socks.

I'm wearing a pair of [material] socks.

I'm wearing a pair of cotton socks.

He needs to [idiom] if he wants to [goal].

He needs to pull his socks up if he wants to get a promotion.

The [noun] will [idiom]!

The fireworks will knock your socks off!

Despite the [condition], his [adjective] socks [verb].

Despite the cold, his thermal socks kept him warm.

The [noun] served as a [metaphor] for [concept].

The single, lonely sock served as a metaphor for his isolation.

Any

Where is my [adjective] sock?

Where is my missing sock?

Any

Don't forget to [verb] your socks.

Don't forget to wash your socks.

Famille de mots

Noms

sock

socks

socking

windsock

Verbes

sock

socked

socking

Adjectifs

sockless

Apparenté

hosiery

stocking

footwear

knitwear

apparel

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour voir tous les exemples

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation and written English.

Erreurs courantes

I have many sock. → I have many socks.
Sock is a countable noun, so you must use the plural 'socks' when talking about more than one.
I'm wearing black stockings. → I'm wearing black socks.
Unless you are wearing long, sheer, formal legwear, you should use the word 'socks' for everyday items.
I need to put a sock in it. → I need to pull my socks up.
These are two different idioms. 'Put a sock in it' means be quiet; 'pull your socks up' means work harder.
My socks is wet. → My socks are wet.
Because 'socks' is plural, you must use the plural verb 'are'.
I bought two sox. → I bought two pairs of socks.
Avoid the 'sox' spelling and use 'pairs of' for matching clothing items.

Astuces

Always Use 'Pair'

When you are buying or talking about a set, always use 'a pair of socks'. Saying 'I have two socks' is okay, but 'a pair' is much more natural for native speakers.

Specific Types

Learn specific names like 'ankle socks', 'crew socks', and 'knee-highs'. This will help you find exactly what you want when you are shopping in an English-speaking country.

Casual Verb

Use the verb 'to sock' sparingly. It's very informal and can sound a bit aggressive or old-fashioned depending on the context. 'Punch' is usually a better choice for formal writing.

Impressing Others

Use 'knock your socks off' when you want to describe something truly amazing. It's a very positive and high-energy expression that native speakers use all the time.

Don't use 'Sox'

Even if you see 'Sox' on a baseball hat, never use that spelling in your own writing. It is only for specific brand names and is considered a spelling error otherwise.

Mind Your Feet

In many cultures, your socks will be seen when you take off your shoes. Always check for holes before you leave the house if you think you might need to remove your shoes!

Keep Them Together

If you struggle with losing socks, use a small laundry bag for your socks. This keeps the 'pair' together through the wash and dry cycles so you never have a 'stray' again.

Compression Socks

If you are going on a long flight, consider 'compression socks'. They are tight and help your blood flow, which prevents your legs from getting tired or swollen.

Ancient Roots

Remember that 'sock' comes from the Latin word for a slipper used by comic actors. This might help you remember that socks are meant to be light and comfortable.

Statement Socks

Wearing 'crazy' or patterned socks is a great way to show your personality. In modern fashion, it's perfectly okay to wear socks with wild colors even with a serious suit.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'S'oft 'O'bject for your 'C'omfortable 'K'icks (shoes). S-O-C-K.

Association visuelle

Imagine a long, colorful striped sock hanging on a clothesline, waving like a flag in the wind.

Word Web

foot shoe cotton wool pair laundry warmth blister

Défi

Try to name five different colors of socks in English and find three things in your house that rhyme with 'sock'.

Origine du mot

The word 'sock' originates from the Old English 'socc', which meant a 'slipper' or 'light shoe'. This, in turn, was derived from the Latin 'soccus', referring to a low-heeled, light slipper worn by comic actors in Ancient Greek and Roman theater. The Latin term likely came from the Greek 'sykchos'. Over centuries, the meaning shifted from a type of shoe to the knitted garment worn inside shoes.

Sens originel : A light shoe or slipper, especially one worn by actors.

Germanic (Old English) with Latin/Greek roots.

Contexte culturel

Generally a neutral and safe word, but be aware that 'put a sock in it' can be considered quite rude depending on the tone.

In the UK and US, it's a common joke that the washing machine 'eats' one sock from every pair, leaving people with many single, 'orphan' socks.

The Boston Red Sox and Chicago White Sox (Major League Baseball teams). Dobby the House-Elf in 'Harry Potter', who is freed when he is given a sock. Sock puppets, which have been used in television shows like 'Lamb Chop's Play-Along'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Getting Dressed

Put on your socks.
Where is the other sock?
Do these socks match?
I need clean socks.

Shopping

How much are these socks?
Do you have wool socks?
I'm looking for ankle socks.
A pack of three socks.

Laundry

Wash the dirty socks.
The dryer ate a sock.
Folding the socks.
Matching the socks.

Sports/Fitness

Wear thick socks for hiking.
Running socks prevent blisters.
Pull your socks up.
Sweaty socks.

Weather

Warm socks for winter.
My socks are wet from the rain.
Thermal socks keep feet warm.
Don't go out in just socks.

Amorces de conversation

"Do you have a favorite pair of socks that you like to wear at home?"

"Why do you think it's so common to lose one sock in the laundry?"

"Do you prefer wearing plain socks or socks with colorful patterns and designs?"

"In your culture, is it important to wear nice socks when visiting someone's house?"

"Have you ever tried knitting your own socks, or do you know someone who does?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe the most colorful or unusual pair of socks you have ever owned. Why were they special to you?

Write about a time you lost something small but important, like a single sock. How did you feel?

If you had to design a pair of 'super socks', what special features or powers would they have?

Discuss the importance of small comforts in life, such as putting on a fresh, warm pair of socks on a cold day.

Imagine a world where socks are used as money. How would society change, and how would you 'save' your wealth?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, you use 'sock' when referring to a single item, like when you find one stray sock under the couch. However, because we have two feet, we usually talk about them in the plural form 'socks'.

Socks are usually thicker, made of knitted fabric, and end below the knee. Stockings are thinner, often sheer, and typically go above the knee. Stockings are also considered more formal.

Yes, in informal English, 'to sock' someone means to hit them very hard. It can also be part of the phrasal verb 'to sock away', which means to save money for later.

No-show socks are very short socks that sit below the edge of your shoes. They are designed to provide the comfort of a sock without being visible, which is a popular fashion choice with sneakers or loafers.

This is an idiom that means you need to improve your performance or work harder. It likely comes from the idea of a sports player getting ready and making sure their uniform is tidy before they start playing seriously.

A windsock is a tube of fabric used at airports or chemical plants to show the direction and strength of the wind. It looks like a giant, open-ended sock flying from a pole.

'Sox' is a stylized, non-standard spelling used mostly in sports team names like the Boston Red Sox. In all other contexts, you should always use the correct spelling: 'socks'.

The most common materials are cotton, wool, polyester, and nylon. Many socks use a blend of these to make them breathable, warm, and stretchy all at the same time.

This common idiom means to impress or surprise someone immensely. For example, 'The ending of the book will knock your socks off!' means the ending is very exciting or unexpected.

To prevent holes, make sure your shoes fit correctly, keep your toenails trimmed, and look for socks with 'reinforced heels and toes', which have extra layers of fabric in those high-wear areas.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour les astuces et notes