Choker
/ˈtʃoʊkər/
nounB1
Definition
A choker is a type of necklace that fits closely around the neck. It is usually short and tight, different from longer necklaces that hang loosely. People wear chokers to make a fashion statement or to add style to their outfit.
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⚡ See It in Action
A close-fitting necklace worn around the neck
- •She wore a black velvet choker with her dress.
- •The choker matched perfectly with her earrings.
- •Leather chokers are popular in alternative fashion.
(Less common) A person or thing that "chokes," but this is slang or informal and not the main meaning here.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "choker" like "necklace" (A1 word), but much tighter and shorter, sitting close to the skin
- ✓Picture a thin band or ribbon wrapped snugly around someone's neck, like a collar but for decoration
- ✓It's the feeling of wearing something close and noticeable on your neck, sometimes making you feel bold or stylish
- ✓Sounds like "choke" + "er" → Imagine a necklace so tight it almost "chokes" (but it doesn’t really hurt)
- ✓In stories or movies, a choker can be a symbol of fashion or sometimes mystery or power
- ✓NOT like a "long necklace" (loose and hanging), a choker is tight and short
- ✓NOT like a "scarf" (soft and for warmth), a choker is usually a decorative accessory
- ✓NOT like "collar" (usually for pets or uniforms), a choker is for fashion and personal style
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Necklace: general jewelry worn around the neck (Use when the exact style is not important)
- •Collar: band worn around the neck (Use when referring to pet collars or uniform collars, not fashion jewelry)
- •Band: simple strip worn around something (Use for non-jewelry or casual styles)
- •Ribbon necklace: a necklace made of ribbon tied around the neck (Use when the choker is made of ribbon material)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: "choke" (to stop breathing or tighten) + "-er" (a person or thing that does something)
- •Etymology: From the verb "choke," because the necklace fits tightly, almost like it could "choke" the wearer
- •Historical development: The word "choker" for a tight necklace appeared in the late 19th century when such jewelry became popular
- •Modern usage: Used mainly for fashion jewelry that fits tightly around the neck, popular in different styles and cultures
💭 Reflect & Connect
•How does wearing a choker change the way a person feels about their style or appearance?
•Can a choker have different meanings in different cultures or fashion styles? How?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.A choker is different from other necklaces because it fits ___ around the neck, not loosely.
2.People often wear a choker to ___ their outfit or make a bold fashion statement.
3.Unlike a scarf, a choker is usually made of ___ materials like leather, velvet, or metal.
4.When someone says "choker," they do NOT mean a necklace that hangs ___.
5.A choker can sometimes feel tight, but it should never ___ the wearer.
6.In fashion, a choker is often paired ___ earrings or other jewelry to complete a look.
7.Some people choose chokers because they want to show a ___ or edgy style.