Dress

Definition

Dress is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a garment for women or girls that covers the body and extends down over the legs. As a verb, it means to put on clothes or to style oneself in a particular way. "Dress" can also refer to decorating or preparing something, especially for presentation.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /drɛs/
• Respelling: dres

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /drɛs/
• Respelling: dres

Etymology

The word "dress" originates from the Old French "dresser," meaning "to prepare" or "arrange," which in turn comes from the Latin "directus" (to arrange or put in order). It entered the English language in the Middle Ages, expanding to mean clothing and attire over time.

Derivatives

• Dressing (noun)
• Dresser (noun)
• Dressed (adjective/verb)
• Dressy (adjective)
• Undress (verb)

Synonyms

• Attire
• Gown
• Outfit

Antonyms

• Undress
• Disrobe
• Strip

Usage

The noun "dress" typically refers to a one-piece garment worn by women, as in "She wore a blue dress to the party." As a verb, it can mean to put on clothes, style oneself, or prepare something, as in "He dressed in formal attire" or "They dressed the salad with vinaigrette."

Related Terms

• Attire: Clothing, especially formal or special clothing.
• Garment: An item of clothing.
• Apparel: Another term for clothing, often referring to all types of dress.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A one-piece garment for women or girls that covers the body and extends over the legs: Refers specifically to the clothing item known as a dress.
  • Example: "She bought a new dress for the wedding."

Verb

• To put on clothes or attire: Describes the act of wearing or putting on clothing.
  • Example: "He quickly dressed for the meeting."
• To arrange or style oneself in a particular way: Refers to choosing and putting on specific clothes, often for a purpose or occasion.
  • Example: "She dressed elegantly for the gala."
• To prepare or decorate something, especially for presentation: Can refer to making something ready, such as food or objects, by adding finishing touches.
  • Example: "They dressed the salad with olive oil and herbs."