Attire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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attire
[əˈtaɪər ]
Definitions
formal clothing
Attire refers to clothes, especially formal or fancy ones. It can also refer to a particular outfit or garments worn for a specific occasion.
Synonyms
clothing, dress, garb, outfit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| attire |
Used in more formal or written contexts, typically referring to what someone is wearing for a special occasion or in a professional setting.
|
| clothing |
A general term for what people wear, suitable for everyday and casual contexts.
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| garb |
Has a more old-fashioned or literary feel and is often used to describe specific kinds of traditional or cultural clothing.
|
| dress |
Used to describe a specific style of clothing, often formal or semi-formal. It can also refer to the act of putting on clothes.
|
| outfit |
Refers to a set of clothes worn together, and is often used informally when describing someone's appearance or fashion choice.
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Examples of usage
- She wore elegant attire to the gala.
- The bridal party was dressed in matching attire for the wedding.
to dress up
To attire is to dress up or put on special clothes. It implies a sense of formality or dressing for a specific purpose.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| attire |
Formal or specialized clothing, often used to specify a particular style or ensemble for an event.
|
| dress up |
To wear clothes that are more formal or nicer than what you usually wear; often for special occasions.
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| clothe |
General term meaning to cover the body with clothes; often used in everyday contexts.
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| garb |
Special or distinctive clothing, typically associated with a particular profession or activity; sometimes has an old-fashioned or formal tone.
|
Examples of usage
- He attired himself in a tuxedo for the event.
- The actors were attired in period costumes for the play.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, attire can indicate someone's social status or profession, such as uniforms for police or doctors.
- Historical attire often reflects the cultural values and aesthetics of a period, like the elaborate designs of the Renaissance.
Fashion Trends
- Fashion industries often showcase seasonal attire, highlighting trends that reflect contemporary culture.
- Street style has increasingly impacted mainstream attire, as influencers share personal styles on social media platforms.
Psychology
- Studies show that the clothes we wear can affect our mood and self-esteem, influencing how we perceive ourselves and how others view us.
- The concept of 'enclothed cognition' suggests that our attire can impact our psychological state and behavior.
Historical Context
- During the Victorian era, attire adhered to strict social codes, with specific types of clothing designated for different social occasions.
- In ancient civilizations, certain colors and fabrics were often reserved for royalty and the elite, showcasing power and wealth.
Origin of 'attire'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French word 'atirier,' which means to equip or to prepare.
- It originally referred to the way one decorated or adorned themselves, emphasizing the visual aspect of clothing.
The word "attire" originated from the Middle English word "atir", meaning "to equip or dress". It has its roots in the Old French word "atirier" and the Latin word "ad-" (to) + "tirare" (to draw, to pull). Over time, "attire" evolved to refer specifically to clothing or garments worn for specific occasions.
See also: attired.