Unmentionables: meaning, definitions and examples
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unmentionables
[ ʌnˈmɛnʃ(ə)nəb(ə)lz ]
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.
|
undergarments |
A general, neutral term for any kind of underwear, useful in formal or clinical settings.
|
lingerie |
Refers to women's undergarments that are typically more elaborate and designed to be attractive, often associated with sensuality.
|
unwear |
A very informal and not widely accepted term for underwear, sometimes used playfully but generally less common.
|
Examples of usage
- She packed her unmentionables in her suitcase.
- The store sells a variety of women's unmentionables.
Translations
Translations of the word "unmentionables" in other languages:
🇵🇹 roupa íntima
🇮🇳 अंडरगारमेंट्स
🇩🇪 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
🇬🇪 ქვედა საცვალი
🇦🇿 alt paltarı
🇲🇽 ropa interior
Etymology
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.