Thongs: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily in Australian and British English to refer to flip-flops, lightweight footwear worn casually in warm weather. Be careful as in American English, 'thongs' usually refers to a type of underwear.

• I wear thongs to the beach.
• He put on his thongs before going outside.

Casual and informal open-toed footwear typically worn in warm weather, around the house, or at the beach.

• She bought a new pair of flip-flops for the summer.
• He changed into his flip-flops after the hike.

Open-toed footwear that can be casual or slightly formal, suitable for warm weather, often with straps that hold the sole to the foot.

• He wore leather sandals to the outdoor wedding.
• Her new sandals are perfect for walking around the city.

Comfortable, usually soft footwear meant to be worn indoors, commonly at home to keep feet warm or comfortable.

• She slipped into her fuzzy slippers after a long day at work.
• He always leaves his slippers by the bed.

In American English, 'thongs' typically refer to a type of sandal with a strap between the big toe and the second toe. In Australian and New Zealand English, it can also mean the same type of footwear.

• I bought a new pair of thongs for the beach.
• Don't forget to pack your thongs for the trip to Australia.

This word is commonly used to describe a type of very skimpy underwear that consists mostly of a string. It's often used in more specific fashion contexts or among people who are familiar with different types of lingerie.

• Victoria's Secret has a wide selection of G-strings.
• She prefers wearing G-strings because they don't show under tight clothing.

This term is often used in lingerie and fashion contexts to describe a type of underwear that provides slightly more coverage than a G-string but still minimal. It's more commonly used in European or specific fashion circles.

• The brand offers a variety of tanga styles for everyday wear.
• She bought a lace tanga as part of a matching set.

This term is a colloquial and often humorous or slightly negative way to refer to very minimal underwear like a thong or G-string. It's usually used in casual conversations or jokes.

• She said she couldn't stand wearing 'butt floss' because it's so uncomfortable.
• You call that butt floss underwear?