Definition

Noun: A tight-fitting garment designed to be worn for swimming or bathing.

Usage

This term refers specifically to a single-piece or two-piece garment worn by individuals for the purpose of swimming or engaging in water-based recreation. It is a formal or traditional term for swimwear.

Examples

• She packed her bathing costume for the trip to the seaside.
• In the early 20th century, a typical bathing costume was often made of wool.
• The store has a wide selection of bathing costumes for men and women.

Advanced Usage

• The term is more common in British English than in American English, where "swimsuit" or "bathing suit" is often preferred.
• It can be used in historical contexts to describe the style of swimwear from a particular era.
  • The museum exhibit featured bathing costumes from the Victorian era.

Variants and Related Words

• Bathing suit (noun): A more common synonym, especially in American English.
• Swimsuit (noun): A general term for a garment worn for swimming.
• Swimwear (noun): A broader category that includes all types of clothing for swimming.

Synonyms

• Swimsuit
• Bathing suit
• Swimming costume

Related Phrases

• To try on a bathing costume: To put on a swimsuit to see if it fits.
  • She went to the fitting room to try on a bathing costume.

Noun

1. tight fitting garment worn for swimming