Nightclothes: meaning, definitions and examples

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nightclothes

 

[ ˈnaɪtˌkloʊðz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

sleepwear

Nightclothes are garments designed to be worn while sleeping. They are typically made from soft, comfortable materials to provide ease and comfort during rest. Common types of nightclothes include pajamas, nightgowns, and robes.

Synonyms

loungewear, nightwear, pajamas, sleepwear

Examples of usage

  • She bought new nightclothes for her vacation.
  • He prefers wearing light nightclothes during the summer.
  • The store has a wide selection of nightclothes for men and women.

Word origin

The term 'nightclothes' combines 'night', which derives from the Old English 'niht', meaning 'the period of darkness between sunset and sunrise', and 'clothes', which comes from the Old English 'clāthas', a term for 'garments or coverings'. The use of particular clothing for sleeping can be traced back to ancient cultures, where specific fabrics were chosen for comfort during rest. Over the centuries, as societies evolved, so did clothing styles, leading to the modern concept of nightclothes. In the Victorian era, for instance, pajamas became popular in the West, influenced by the loose-fitting garments worn in India. Today, nightclothes encompass a range of styles and materials designed to enhance sleep quality and comfort.