reach-me-down
Definition
Adjective:
- Ready-made (of clothing): "reach-me-down" describes an article of clothing that is mass-produced in standard sizes, as opposed to being custom-tailored. This term is informal and often considered dated or slang.
- Second-hand (by extension): In some informal contexts, it can also refer to clothing that has been previously owned, though this is less common.
Noun:
- A ready-made garment: "reach-me-down" can be used as a noun to refer to a piece of clothing that is purchased in a standard size, not made to measure. It is typically used in the plural form ("reach-me-downs").
Usage Examples
Adjective:
- He wore a cheap reach-me-down suit to the interview. (A suit that was bought ready-made, not tailored.)
Noun:
- The shop sells only reach-me-downs for men. (The shop sells only ready-made garments.)
Advanced Usage
- "reach-me-down" as a modifier: It can be used to describe anything that is standardized or lacking in personal fit, not just clothing.
- His approach to cooking was rather reach-me-down, using only pre-packaged ingredients. (His cooking method was unoriginal and mass-produced in style.)
Variants and Related Words
- Reach-me-downs (n, plural): the term most commonly used for ready-made clothes.
- I bought a few reach-me-downs from the department store. (I bought a few ready-made garments.)
Synonyms
- Off-the-rack: (adj) ready-made and available for immediate purchase, typically of clothing.
- Ready-made: (adj) made in advance for general sale, not custom-made.
- Second-hand: (adj) previously owned, though not a direct synonym for the primary meaning.
Related Idioms
- No common idioms directly derive from "reach-me-down."
Additional Notes
- The term "reach-me-down" is primarily British slang and is considered old-fashioned. It originated in the 19th century, referring to garments that could be "reached down" from a shelf or rack in a shop, as opposed to being made to order. In American English, "off-the-rack" or "ready-to-wear" are more common equivalents.