Definition

Noun: - Clothing worn for doing manual labor: Garments specifically designed and used for protection and durability during physical work, often in industrial, construction, or maintenance settings.

Usage

This noun refers to the specific category of attire intended for work tasks. It is typically used in a general, collective sense. - The company provides standard work-clothing for all factory employees. - His work-clothing was covered in paint and sawdust after the long day.

Advanced Usage

• As a compound modifier: While "work-clothing" itself is a compound noun, it can function attributively before other nouns.
  • The work-clothing policy requires high-visibility vests on site.

Variants and Related Words

• Work clothes (noun phrase): A common alternative phrasing with the same meaning.
  • He changed out of his work clothes before going to the restaurant.
• Workwear (noun): A more modern, often commercial term for clothing designed for work.
• Protective clothing (noun phrase): A broader category that includes work-clothing designed for safety (e.g., against chemicals, heat).

Synonyms

• Overalls
• Coveralls
• Boiler suit
• Dungarees (context-specific)

Notes

"Work-clothing" is a closed compound noun. Its primary function is to denote the general category of garments, distinguishing it from formalwear, casualwear, or sportswear. It emphasizes utility over style.

Noun

1. clothing worn for doing manual labor