# welt

/ˈwɛɫt/ (US) · /wˈɛlt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/welt
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 2. shoe construction

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a strip of leather or plastic sewn into the seam of a shoe to make it stronger.

For teachers: a strip of material, typically leather, stitched to the upper and insole of a shoe as a point of attachment for the sole.

- High-quality boots often use a leather welt to help them last longer.
- The cobbler explained that a Goodyear welt allows the boots to be resoled multiple times, significantly extending the footwear's lifespan.

### 3. to hit someone

verb · CEFR C2 · Literary

to hit someone hard enough to leave marks on their skin.

For teachers: to strike someone or something with enough force to produce ridges on the surface.

- The harsh wind seemed to welt his face as he walked through the storm.
- In the novel, the antagonist threatens to welt anyone who dares to challenge his authority in the village.

### 4. to reinforce an edge

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical

to add a strip of material to an edge to make it stronger or look better.

For teachers: to furnish with a welt; to reinforce or ornament a seam with a strip of material.

- The tailor decided to welt the pockets of the jacket for a more professional look.
- Upholsterers often welt the seams of cushions to provide both structural integrity and a decorative finish to the furniture.

## Examples

- He had a welt on his arm from the mosquito bite.
- The doctor examined the welt on the patient's leg to determine if it was a result of an allergic reaction or a physical injury.
- The hikers returned from the trail with several welts on their arms, evidence of their encounter with the local insect population.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.