may-ô

Một người đàn ông mặc chiếc may-ô màu xanh để bơi ở hồ bơi.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Undershirt / Singlet: A close-fitting, sleeveless garment, typically made of cotton or a cotton blend, worn under a shirt or other outer clothing. It is designed to absorb sweat and protect outer garments from body oils.
   • Athletic Shirt / Tank Top: A similar sleeveless shirt, often worn for sports, exercise, or as casual summer wear.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Anh ấy luôn mặc may-ô bên trong áo sơ mi. (He always wears an undershirt under his dress shirt.)
  • Cô ấy mặc may-ô để tập thể dục. (She wears a tank top to exercise.)
  • Trời nóng nên tôi chỉ mặc một chiếc may-ô. (It's hot, so I'm just wearing a singlet.)

Advanced Usage

• The term "may-ô" is a Vietnamese adaptation of the French word "maillot," which can refer to various tight-fitting garments, including swimsuits and athletic jerseys. In contemporary Vietnamese, its primary meaning is an undershirt or tank top.

Variants and Related Words

• Áo may-ô (n): This is a fuller form with the same meaning as "may-ô." The word "áo" (shirt) is often added for clarity.
  • Tôi cần mua vài chiếc áo may-ô mới. (I need to buy some new undershirts.)

Synonyms

• Undershirt: A garment worn underneath other clothes.
• Singlet: A sleeveless undershirt or athletic top.
• Tank top: A sleeveless shirt with low neck and armholes.
• Vest (British English): A sleeveless undergarment.

Notes on Usage

• "May-ô" is considered a common, everyday word. It is neutral in register, suitable for both casual and descriptive contexts.
• The item is a basic staple of clothing, analogous to an A-shirt or wifebeater (slang, potentially offensive) in English.