Pronunciation: [ʃˈɜːd] (IPA) 
The word "shirred" is spelled with two "r's" and one "e". The first syllable is pronounced as "shuh", represented by the IPA symbol /ʃə/. The second syllable is pronounced as "urd", represented by the IPA symbol /ɜrd/. The final "e" is silent and makes no sound. The pronunciation of "shirred" can be represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /ʃərd/. This word refers to a cooking technique where eggs are baked in a dish or ramekin.
The term "shirred" is commonly used to describe a fabric or garment that has been gathered or pleated using the technique of stitching multiple parallel rows of gathering stitches. This method is typically employed to create decorative details, add texture, or add elasticity to a piece of fabric or clothing. The gathered stitches are typically made on the wrong side of the fabric, and when pulled tight, it creates a series of evenly spaced pleats or gathers on the right side.
Shirred fabrics are often characterized by their stretchy and form-fitting nature, as the gathers allow the fabric to expand and contract easily. This technique is commonly used in the construction of clothing such as dresses, blouses, skirts, or sleeves, as well as in the creation of home decor items like curtains or pillows.
Shirring can be executed using various methods and sewing techniques, such as elastic thread, straight stitching, or multiple rows of gathering stitches. The choice of method largely depends on the desired end result and the fabric being used.
Overall, shirred fabric or garments can add visual interest, enhance the fit or shape of a garment, and provide a comfortable and flexible wearing experience. Whether used for aesthetic or functional purposes, shirring remains a popular technique in the world of fashion and textile design.
Having elastic lines or cords inserted between pieces of cloth, as the strings of india-rubber in men's braces.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "shirred" comes from the Middle English term "sheren" or "shyre" which means "to divide" or "to shear". It can be traced back to the Old English word "sceran" which also means "to cut or divide". Over time, the word "shirred" evolved to describe the technique of gathering or pleating fabric by sewing parallel rows of stitches and pulling them tightly. This technique creates a decorative or functional effect in clothing, especially in the gathering of fabric around a waistband or a yoke.
