stripes - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
stripes Word Meanings
- having stripes
- marked with long narrow bands
- showing distinct lines or patterns
stripes Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
stripes Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/straɪp/
US
/straɪp/
stripes Word Etymology
stripe = 'a long, narrow band' (from Latin 'stripes' meaning 'to stripe') → Old French → English. Imagine a zebra with distinct lines, each stripe telling a story of its habitat’s beauty.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Stripe as an adjective describes something that has stripes, or is marked with long narrow bands, or shows a pattern of distinct lines. In everyday English you will often see 'striped' or 'with stripes' rather than 'stripe' used as an attributive adjective. The core idea is a repeat of parallel lines of color or shade. Common examples include a striped shirt, a zebra’s striped coat, or a surface with a striped pattern. Learners sometimes confuse 'stripe' with 'striped' or think stripes imply a measurement rather than pattern. Remember that 'stripe' can also be a noun for a single band, and the plural 'stripes' refers to multiple bands.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Stripe is usually a noun; use striped or with stripes for adjectives.
- 2. Stripes refers to multiple bands.
- 3. A single stripe can be described as a stripe, but more natural is 'a stripe' as part of a larger pattern.
- 4. Direction matters: horizontal vs vertical can change style.
- 5. Common collocations: striped shirt, striped scarf, pattern with stripes.
- 6. When in doubt, rephrase to 'with stripes' instead of 'a stripe'.
Common Misconceptions
- Stripe is not the natural adjective before a noun; use striped or with stripes.
- Stripe is usually a noun; stripes is the plural for multiple bands.
- Stripes describe patterns, not a single color block.
- Confusing stripe with striped when describing clothing.
- Misunderstanding stripe direction as a color difference.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short): Stripe as an adjective is less common; learners usually prefer striped or with stripes and often mix up stripe with stripes or striped.
Learning Tips
- Practice the noun vs adjective forms (stripe vs striped).
- Pair stripes with common nouns: shirt, scarf, flag.
- Notice direction cues: horizontal vs vertical stripes.
- Use 'with stripes' when describing a garment rather than 'a stripe ____'.
- Read labels or fashion descriptions to hear natural collocations.
- Quiz yourself with pictures of patterns to name them correctly.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'stripes'?
A.A method of cooking
B.A type of fruit
C.Marks made by a broad band of color
D.A form of transportation
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'stripes' correctly?
A.He stripes his hair every month.
B.The tiger has beautiful stripes on its fur.
C.The stripes are his favorite flavor of ice cream.
D.They like to stripe their furniture.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'stripes'?
A.Flavors
B.Patterns
C.Textures
D.Shapes
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'stripes'?
A.Spotted
B.Curved
C.Solid
D.Shadowed
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'stripes' might be relevant?
A.The team uniform is designed with bold stripes to stand out.
B.The cat runs quickly to catch its toy.
C.That shirt has various colors, but it doesn't have any designs.
D.He chose a solid color for the wall.
Related Listening
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