underskirt
/'ʌndəskə:t/
Definition
- Noun:
- An undergarment worn under a skirt: A piece of clothing, typically a skirt or petticoat, worn beneath an outer skirt.
Usage
- The word "underskirt" is a countable noun. It refers specifically to the garment itself.
- It is used to describe a foundational layer of clothing that provides shape, warmth, or modesty beneath a skirt or dress.
Examples
- Noun:
- Her Victorian-era costume required a lace-trimmed underskirt for fullness.
- She chose a silk underskirt to prevent the wool skirt from itching.
Advanced Usage
- Historical Context: In historical fashion, an underskirt (or petticoat) was often essential for creating the desired silhouette, such as the bell shape of the 1950s or the hoop skirts of the 19th century.
- Functional Use: In some traditional or ceremonial dresses, multiple underskirts are worn to add volume and grandeur to the outer garment.
Variants and Related Words
- Petticoat (n): Often used synonymously with "underskirt," though historically, a petticoat could also refer to a separate skirt-like undergarment or a decorative overskirt.
- Slip (n): A lightweight undergarment, often sleeveless and dress-like, worn beneath a dress or skirt. A slip is typically smoother and less voluminous than a traditional underskirt.
- Crinoline (n): A stiffened or structured underskirt designed to hold a skirt out in a particular shape.
Synonyms
- Petticoat: An underskirt, especially one that is full or decorative.
- Half-slip: A slip that is just a skirt, worn under skirts and dresses.
Antonyms
- Overskirt: An outer skirt, often decorative, worn over another garment.
Noun
-
undergarment worn under a skirt
