Clothes: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in everyday situations to refer to items worn on the body such as shirts, pants, and dresses.

• I need to wash my clothes today.
• She bought some new clothes for the summer.

More formal than 'clothes' and often used in commercial or business contexts, such as in retail or fashion. Often found in advertisements.

• The store offers a wide range of men's and women's apparel.
• Winter apparel is now on sale.

A more technical or specific term, often used in the context of manufacturing, sewing, or fashion design.

• The factory produces high-quality garments.
• Designers are working on new garments for the upcoming fashion show.

Refers to the type of clothes a person is wearing, often in the context of formal or specific types of events.

• Formal attire is required for the wedding.
• His professional attire made a good impression during the interview.

General term for items people wear, suitable for discussing attire in a broad, everyday sense.

• I need to buy new clothes for the winter
• She sorted through her old clothes to donate to charity

Refers to the collection of clothes someone owns, or a piece of furniture used for storing clothes.

• She has a versatile wardrobe for different seasons
• My wardrobe is full, and I have no space for new clothes

Refers to a set of clothes chosen to be worn together. Typically used in casual conversation.

• She picked out a cute outfit for the date
• His outfit was perfect for the occasion

Refers to a set of clothes that are designed to be worn together, usually used in a fashion context.

• She wore a charming ensemble to the party
• His ensemble was carefully coordinated and stylish

General term for items worn by people, suitable for everyday conversation.

• I need to buy new clothes for the summer
• She folded her clothes neatly before putting them away

Refers to the style or manner of wearing clothes and also specifically to a type of garment worn by women.

• Her dress is elegant and fashionable
• They dressed casually for the party

Formal context or when specifying the type of clothing worn for a particular occasion.

• The invitation specified formal attire
• His work attire is very professional

Often used to describe distinctive clothing, especially of a particular profession or group. Can have an old-fashioned or literary feel.

• The monks were in their traditional garb
• He arrived at the party in medieval garb