Undergarments: meaning, definitions and examples

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undergarments

[ˈʌndəˌɡɑːrmənts ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

clothing

Undergarments are clothes worn under other clothes, often next to the skin, and usually hidden from view. They are worn for privacy, modesty, hygiene, or to shape the body.

Synonyms

intimates, lingerie, underclothes, underwear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
undergarments	A general term suitable for any type of clothing worn under outer clothes by people of any gender or age. Often used in formal or technical contexts. She packed enough undergarments for her trip. The store offers a wide variety of undergarments.
underwear	A common and universal term used for all types of clothing worn under outer garments. Suitable for any gender and age, often used in casual and day-to-day contexts. He bought new underwear from the store. She prefers cotton underwear.
lingerie	Primarily used to describe women's fashionable and often sensual underclothing. Commonly used in contexts related to fashion, romance, or advertising. She received a set of elegant lingerie for Valentine's Day. The magazine featured an article about trending lingerie styles.
intimates	Refers to more personal and often softer or delicate underwear, typically used in marketing or upscale contexts. Usually associated with clothing designed for women. The boutique specializes in luxury intimates. She has an excellent collection of intimates.
underclothes	A general and straightforward term that can refer to any basic clothing items worn under outer clothes. Typically used in everyday, informal contexts. Make sure you wash your underclothes regularly. He forgot to pack his underclothes for the weekend trip.

Examples of usage

They wore silk undergarments beneath their outer clothing.
She bought new undergarments for the trip.
He decided to change his undergarments after the workout.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The first known use of undergarments dates back to ancient Egypt, where loincloths were worn by both men and women.
In the 16th century, men commonly wore breeches and women wore petticoats to shape their outer garments.
The invention of the corset in the 19th century dramatically changed women's fashion, creating an hourglass figure.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, undergarments have specific meanings, such as modesty or social status, influencing what is socially acceptable to wear.
The term 'lingerie' is often associated with women's undergarments and has become a symbol of femininity and seduction in Western culture.
In Japan, traditional garments like kimono are typically paired with an elaborate undergarment layer, called 'juban,' that enhances the outer appearance.

Modern Trends

The rise of athleisure has blurred the lines between undergarments and regular clothing, with many people wearing sports bras and leggings as daily wear.
Sustainability is now a major trend in undergarments, with many brands focusing on eco-friendly materials and ethical production processes.
Innovative fabrics are being used to create undergarments that offer benefits like moisture-wicking, odor control, and temperature regulation.

Fashion Industry

The global undergarment market is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with a growing emphasis on inclusivity and body positivity in product ranges.
Fashion shows often feature undergarments, demonstrating how these pieces can be both functional and stylish, as seen in Victoria's Secret runway shows.
High-profile collaborations between designers and underwear brands have emerged, elevating undergarments to coveted fashion items.

Psychology of Clothing

Wearing comfortable undergarments can positively impact a person’s confidence and mood, as they are linked to personal comfort and style.
Studies suggest that what people wear underneath affects their self-perception and how they present themselves to others.
The practice of 'dressing up' with fine undergarments can make individuals feel more professional and ready to face the day.

Translations

Translations of the word "undergarments" in other languages:

🇵🇹 roupa íntima

🇮🇳 अंतर्वस्त्र

🇩🇪 Unterwäsche

🇮🇩 pakaian dalam

🇺🇦 нижня білизна

🇵🇱 bielizna

🇯🇵 下着 (したぎ)

🇫🇷 sous-vêtements

🇪🇸 ropa interior

🇹🇷 iç çamaşırı

🇰🇷 속옷

🇸🇦 ملابس داخلية

🇨🇿 spodní prádlo

🇸🇰 spodná bielizeň

🇨🇳 内衣 (nèiyī)

🇸🇮 spodnje perilo

🇮🇸 nærföt

🇰🇿 іш киім

🇬🇪 სასაცილო ტანსაცმელი

🇦🇿 alt paltarları

🇲🇽 ropa interior