Dress: meaning, definitions and examples

A general term for a one-piece garment for a woman or girl that covers the body and extends down over the legs. Suitable for casual, formal, and professional settings.

• She wore a beautiful red dress to the party
• This dress is perfect for the office

A formal dress, usually long and worn for special occasions such as balls, weddings, or formal events.

• She looked stunning in her evening gown at the gala
• The bride chose a white gown for her wedding

An older or more regional term for a dress, often used to describe a woman's or girl's dress in a more informal or historical context.

• She wore a simple frock while working in the garden
• The little girl had a pretty frock with flowers on it

A loose-fitting outer garment, usually for men or women, used for lounging around the house, after a bath, or in ceremonial settings.

• After a shower, he put on his cozy robe
• The judge wore a black robe during the trial

Used twice in different contexts. Here, it focuses on the general act of putting on clothing, not specific to gender or type.

• Parents dress their children every morning
• | It's important to dress appropriately for the weather

Typically refers to the act of putting clothes on someone, often used in a broader or more classic sense. It can be literal or metaphorical, implying providing clothing or covering.

• We need to clothe the homeless during the winter
• | She clothe herself in layers to stay warm

Used in more formal or professional contexts to describe clothing, especially when discussing appropriate or fashionable clothing for events or work.

• The invitation specifies formal attire
• | His business attire was impeccable

Specifically refers to distinct or special clothing, often of a particular profession, culture, or historical period. It can sound somewhat archaic or formal.

• He wore traditional Scottish garb at the festival
• | Monks are usually seen in simple garb