Pronunciation: [ɡˈɜːdə͡ld] (IPA) 
The word "girdled" is spelled with an "i" and not an "e" because it follows the general rule that when a word ends in a consonant and the vowel before it is short, the consonant is doubled before adding "-ed" or "-ing". Thus, the word "girdle" with a short "i" sound becomes "girdled" with a double "d" and a long "i" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /ˈɡɝdld/.
Girdled is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "girdle." The term "girdled" is used to describe something that has been encircled or bound tightly with a band or a strap, typically around the waist or trunk area.
In a literal sense, girdling can refer to the act of fastening a belt or a girdle around a person's waist for support or ornamentation. It can also signify the process of wrapping or tying a material tightly around an object or tree trunk to restrict the flow of sap and nutrients, affecting the growth or survival of the plant.
In a figurative sense, girdling can denote the act of surrounding or enclosing something completely, creating a barrier or boundary. It implies the creation of a protective or restrictive enclosure, whether physical or metaphorical, that can prevent access or movement. This could pertain to various contexts such as girdling a city with walls for protection, or figuratively girdling oneself with determination or resolve in accomplishing a task or facing a challenge.
Overall, "girdled" is a term that conveys the idea of being encircled, bound, or encompassed, both literally and figuratively, attributing a sense of confinement or protection depending on the context in which it is used.
The word "girdled" has its etymology from the Middle English "girdelen", which originated from the Old English verb "gyrdelian". "Gyrdelian" was derived from the noun "gyrdel", meaning a belt or a girdle. The Old English term developed from the Proto-Germanic *gurdelaz, which had the same meaning. Ultimately, the word can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root *ghordho-, related to "gird" in Old High German and "girdle" in Old Norse.
