Unmentionables Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unmentionables

[ʌnˈmɛnʃ(ə)nəb(ə)lz ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

clothing

Unmentionables refer to undergarments, especially those worn by women. They are called unmentionables because they are considered intimate and not to be discussed in polite conversation.

Synonyms

lingerie, undergarments, unwear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unmentionables	Used in a humorous or euphemistic context to refer to underwear, often implying modesty or a desire to avoid explicit naming. She blushed when her unmentionables were mentioned in public. Unmentionables should be washed separately from other clothes.
undergarments	A general, neutral term for any kind of underwear, useful in formal or clinical settings. He packed his undergarments in the suitcase before the trip. Properly fitting undergarments are important for comfort.
lingerie	Refers to women's undergarments that are typically more elaborate and designed to be attractive, often associated with sensuality. She bought new lingerie for a special occasion. The boutique specializes in high-end lingerie items.
unwear	A very informal and not widely accepted term for underwear, sometimes used playfully but generally less common. Don't forget to put your clean unwear in the laundry basket. He's a bit quirky, always referring to his underwear as unwear.

Examples of usage

She packed her unmentionables in her suitcase.
The store sells a variety of women's unmentionables.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

In Victorian England, mentioning underwear was taboo, hence the need for euphemisms like 'unmentionables'.
Films and literature often use the term to evoke humor or embarrassment in scenarios involving accidental exposure.
Modern fashion brands now embrace the term in marketing, portraying it as a trendy, lighthearted approach to intimate wear.

Psychology

Discussion around intimate apparel can trigger feelings of embarrassment or shyness, as it touches on personal privacy.
Using euphemisms like 'unmentionables' helps people navigate conversations about personal topics without discomfort.
The humor in calling underwear 'unmentionables' can ease social anxieties surrounding personal clothing.

Literature

The term appears in classic literature as a humorous way to refer to intimate garments in a coy manner.
Authors use 'unmentionables' to create relatable scenarios involving characters' private lives, adding depth and humor.
It represents broader themes of modesty and societal expectations in different time periods.

Fashion

Fashion icons have often played with the concept of 'unmentionables', flaunting them as high fashion or provocative statements.
The rise of vintage styles has led to a resurgence of interest in the aesthetics of 'unmentionables' as part of overall fashion.
Modern designers utilize transparency and layering to merge outerwear and 'unmentionables', reflecting a cultural shift toward openness.

Origin of 'unmentionables'

Main points about word origin

The word combines 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'mentionables', suggesting items not to be talked about in polite conversation.
It originated in the early 20th century, reflecting societal norms where discussing underwear was considered improper.
The playful use of ‘unmentionables’ adds humor and lightness to conversations about intimate apparel.

The term 'unmentionables' originated in the late 18th century as a euphemism for underwear, particularly women's undergarments. During this time, discussing such intimate clothing items was considered inappropriate and taboo in polite society. The word 'unmentionables' allowed people to refer to these items discreetly without causing offense. Over time, the term has evolved to become somewhat humorous and nostalgic, often used in a playful or ironic manner to refer to undergarments.

See also: mention, mentioned, mentioner.