DUTCH WIFE Meaning and
Definition
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A Dutch wife refers to an inanimate object, resembling a large cylindrical cushion or pillow, typically made of fabric or synthetic material. This elongated pillow is intended for use as a bed companion, providing comfort and support during sleep. It is primarily designed to be held, cuddled, or wrapped around the body by the user.
Originating from Japan, where it is known as "datchūru," the Dutch wife gained its English name due to its perceived use by Dutch colonialists during the era of Dutch East Indies. The term "Dutch" in this context is used to denote a general association with European colonial history.
Dutch wives are commonly filled with materials such as buckwheat husks, polyester fibers, or microbeads, providing pliability and flexibility to mold comfortably around the user's body. They are often quite long, ranging from four to six feet in length, and varying in thickness.
Although providing support and comfort for restful sleep is their primary purpose, Dutch wives can also serve other functions. They can be used as pregnancy pillows or as therapeutic cushions for individuals suffering from certain medical conditions, particularly those requiring body position adjustments or additional lumbar and leg support.
Dutch wives are available in various designs, shapes, and sizes, with some featuring removable pillowcases for easy cleaning. They have become widely popular as sleep aids, particularly in regions where the use of body pillows is commonplace.
Common Misspellings for DUTCH WIFE
- sutch wife
- xutch wife
- cutch wife
- futch wife
- rutch wife
- eutch wife
- dytch wife
- dhtch wife
- djtch wife
- ditch wife
- d8tch wife
- d7tch wife
- durch wife
- dufch wife
- dugch wife
- duych wife
- du6ch wife
- du5ch wife
- dutxh wife
- dutvh wife
Etymology of DUTCH WIFE
The term "Dutch wife" originated in the colonial era and primarily refers to a particular type of bolster or long pillow, rather than an actual wife from the Netherlands. The exact etymology of the phrase is uncertain, but there are a few proposed explanations:
1. Colonial Era Origin: During the 17th and 18th centuries, European colonizers, particularly Dutch traders, visited various parts of Asia including Indonesia, Japan, and India. In these regions, it was common for men to use long pillows to rest their legs or keep cool during hot nights. Some sources suggest that the term "Dutch wife" was coined by locals as a name for these pillows because they associated the Dutch traders with using such pillows at night.
2. Nautical Connection: Another explanation suggests that the term "Dutch wife" may have originated among sailors.
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