Definition

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

Usage

This term refers specifically to the clothing worn for the purpose of swimming. It is a formal or traditional term for what is commonly called a swimsuit or bathing suit.

Examples

• She packed her swimming costume for the holiday at the beach.
• The store has a new selection of swimming costumes for the summer season.
• He forgot his swimming costume, so he couldn't join the others in the pool.

Advanced Usage

• The term is more commonly used in British English. In American English, "bathing suit" or "swimsuit" is more frequent.
• It can be used in formal contexts, such as in rules or advertisements for swimming pools: "Proper swimming costume required."

Variants and Related Words

• Swimsuit (noun): The most common modern synonym.
• Bathing suit (noun): A common synonym, especially in American English.
• Bikini (noun): A specific type of two-piece swimming costume for women.
• Trunks (noun): A specific type of swimming costume for men.
• Swimwear (noun): A general, uncountable term for clothing designed for swimming.

Synonyms

• Bathing suit
• Swimsuit
• Bathing costume

Antonyms

There are no direct antonyms, as it is a specific item of clothing. Contextual opposites could include regular clothes or formal wear.

Related Phrases/Idioms

There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically using the term "swimming costume." The word is used literally.

Noun

1. tight fitting garment worn for swimming