What is the meaning of the phrase “fits like a glove”?
To fit perfectly, whether in size, shape, or suitability.
What is the origin of the phrase “fits like a glove”?
The precise origin of the phrase “fits like a glove” is yet to be determined, although there are some who say that the phrase may date as far back as the 1500s, since this is when gloves became a common accessory for both men and women. That said, however, the earliest known use of the phrase in print appears much later, in the mid-to late-1700s.
The phrase is thought to be derived from the literal snugness and comfort of a well-made glove, which conforms closely to the shape of the hand. Expanding on it’s literal meaning, the figurative imagery of a glove fitting well suggests a sense of ease and appropriateness, making it an effective metaphor in a variety of different contexts. Read on for examples.
How do you use the phrase “fits like a glove”?
Although the phrase “fits like a glove” can be used in a literal sense, this can also be used to describe anything that is well-fitting, such as a dress, a pair of trousers, a shirt or blouse, a pair of shoes, and so on. For example, one might say that a wedding address “fits like a glove”. Similarly, the phrase might also be used to refer to pulling up perfectly in a parking space.
That said however, the metaphor can be extended further still in order to refer to suitability as opposed to physical fitting in terms of literal shape and size. For example, someone might say “the intern fitted in like a glove with the rest of the team”. Or, “the new line manager fits like a glove into the sales department”.
Another example might be: “Since you’re diabetic, this diet will fit you like a glove.” Or “I love this song because it fits my mood like a glove.” Or you could have “The plan fits like a glove for these circumstances.”
What are some other ways of saying “fits like a glove”?
There are several words and phrases that can often be used synonymously in place of “fits like a glove”. Here are some examples:
- Hit the right note
- Right up my/your/his/her/their alley
- Fits perfectly into place
- Snug fit
- Tailored
- Comfortable
- Made to measure
- Just right
- Fits like a charm
- Fits like a puzzle piece
- Fits like a dream
Notable uses of the phrase “fits like a glove”
Literature
In Ian Fleming’s novel, Diamonds Are Forever released in 1956, the character James Bond dons clothes or roles that “fit like a glove” quite literally and figuratively, and Fleming occasionally alludes to the phrase to convey Bond’s confidence: “The tuxedo fitted him like a glove. He felt like Bond again.” This double use of fashion and persona conveys a synergy between identity and outer appearance.
Film
In the film Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, released in 1994, the most iconic and comedic use of the phrase comes from Jim Carrey’s portrayal of Ace Ventura, who exclaims: “Like a glove!”
after squeezing his car into an impossibly tight parking space. This humorous exaggeration cemented the phrase in pop culture, especially in North America.
In the film Legally Blonde, released in 2001, the character Elle Woods says something “fits like a glove” when trying on outfits, using it both as a fashion term and to suggest emotional confidence. It reflects how she steps into the Harvard Law environment and ultimately finds her place.
Music
The heavy metal band KISS had a song called “Fits Like a Glove” which was released in 1983 and was on their Lick It Up album. It uses the phrase as a crude sexual innuendo, reflecting the band’s provocative style.
Opposite phrases to “fits like a glove”
There are also words, metaphors, phrases and idioms that depict the opposite meaning to “fits like a glove”. Here are some examples:
- Square peg in a round hole
- Out of place
- Inappropriate
- Like a fish out of water
- Doesn’t belong
- Doesn’t fit in
- Ill-suited
- Outsider
- Non-conformist
Whereas phrases like “Fits like a glove” convey how something is perfectly suited, whether literally (a garment) or figuratively (a role, task, relationship), in contrast phrases like “square peg in a round hole” conveys how something or someone is unsuited to the task, context, or environment.
