espadrille

[ es-puh-dril ]

noun

1. a flat shoe with a cloth upper, a rope sole, and sometimes lacing that ties around the ankle.
2. a casual shoe resembling this, often with a wedge heel instead of a flat sole.

espadrille

/ ˌɛspəˈdrɪl /

noun

1. a light shoe with a canvas upper, esp with a braided cord sole

Word History and Origins

Origin of espadrille¹

1860–65; < French < Provençal espardilho, diminutive of espart esparto

Word History and Origins

Origin of espadrille¹

C19: from French, from Provençal espardilho, diminutive of espart esparto ; so called from the use of esparto for the soles of such shoes

Example Sentences

Prints on silken shirts, jackets and trousers recalled weaving, echoed in the espadrilles and fishermen sandals.

From Seattle Times

We had a beach M3gan with a peasant blouse, beach hat and espadrilles.

From New York Times

A capsule doesn’t have to only consist of work-appropriate separates or neutral colors; a summer vacation capsule doesn’t have to be all sun hats and espadrilles.

From Washington Post

The shoe of the season is an unfussy espadrille, substituting the sneaker of recent seasons, and which Armani himself wore, showing them off with an ironic laugh.

From Seattle Times

The frilly dresses, pastel ties and even the first lady’s sky-high espadrilles boldly Eastered on.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• moccasin
• shoe
• slipper