nighty

A child puts on her nighty before bedtime.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Informal term for a nightgown: "nighty" (also spelled "nightie") is a casual, affectionate word for a nightgown — a loose, comfortable garment worn for sleeping, typically by women or girls.

Usage Examples

• (An informal term for a nightgown.)
• (A child’s sleeping garment.)

Advanced Usage

• "nighty" as a term of endearment: In very informal or playful contexts, "nighty" can be used as a shortened, affectionate way to say "goodnight" (though this is rare and non-standard).
  • "Nighty, sweetheart," she whispered to her child. (A playful, abbreviated form of "goodnight".)

Variants and Related Words

• Nightie (n): an alternative spelling of "nighty", equally common.

  • She bought a new nightie for the sleepover. (Same meaning as "nighty".)

• Nightgown (n): the full, formal term for a sleeping garment.

  • A nightgown is often longer than a nighty. (The standard word for the same item.)

Synonyms

• Nightgown: the standard, less informal synonym.
• Sleepwear: a general term for clothing worn for sleeping (includes nighties, pyjamas, etc.).
• Negligee: a more elegant, often sheer nightgown (typically used in formal or romantic contexts).

Related Idioms

• "In one's nighty": a phrase meaning wearing only a nightgown, often used for comfort or bedtime.
  • She answered the door in her nighty, looking sleepy. (She was wearing only her nightgown.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Nighty-night (interjection): a playful, informal way to say goodnight, especially to children.
  • "Nighty-night, sleep tight!" (An affectionate farewell at bedtime.)