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hemline

American  
[hem-lahyn] / ˈhɛmˌlaɪn /

noun

  1. the bottom edge of a coat, dress, skirt, etc.

  2. the level of this edge as expressed in inches from the floor.

    an 18-inch hemline.


hemline British  
/ ˈhɛmˌlaɪn /

noun

  1. the level to which the hem of a skirt or dress hangs; hem

    knee-length hemlines

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of hemline

First recorded in 1920–25; hem 1 + line 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This nylon Maxi Petticoat from the spring/summer 2026 collection, with its asymmetrical hemline and voluminous fit, is a kind of architecture, a way to build yourself into the world around you.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

Rose Byrne, who is up for best actress for If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, wore a long cream and silver dress with a ruffled hemline.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2026

So, the dress, which also featured a higher hemline, became a formal and universal choice of attire amongst women.

From Salon • Sep. 23, 2023

A very formal cocktail dress might do if the hemline is at or below the knee.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 26, 2022

Two tuxedos, complete with shoes, and a beautiful rose silk dress with beading on its neck and hemline.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

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