Dutch

edit

Etymology

edit

From keurs +‎ lijf.

Pronunciation

edit
  • IPA(key): /ˈkøːrs.lɛi̯f/
  • Audio:(file)
  • Hyphenation: keurs‧lijf

Noun

edit

keurslijf n (plural keurslijven, diminutive keurslijfje n)

  1. stays, a corset, a waist (foundation garment for women, reinforced with stays)
  2. (figurative) a straitjacket; something very tightly arranged or regulated, thereby allowing little freedom; something oppressive
  3. (historical) a tight bodice

Descendants

edit
  • Afrikaans: keurslyf