underdress

[ verb uhn-der-dres; noun uhn-der-dres ]

verb (used without object)

, un·der·dressed or un·der·drest, un·der·dress·ing.

1. to clothe oneself less completely or formally than is usual or fitting for the circumstances.

noun

1. garments worn beneath others; underclothes.
2. a slip, petticoat, or other underskirt, especially one designed to be seen when worn, as beneath a redingote.

Word History and Origins

Origin of underdress¹

First recorded in 1775–85; under- + dress

Example Sentences

Over an underdress of flame-colored silk there were what Jim considered floating clouds of pale gray chiffon.

From Project Gutenberg

From her shoulders fell a long full robe of purple byssus, over an underdress of white which readied the knee.

From Project Gutenberg

Underdress and undersleeves, jaconet muslin, trimmed with lace or embroidery.

From Project Gutenberg

Bodice and underdress of sky-blue velveteen, trimmed with bouffants and noeuds of bell-pulls.

From Project Gutenberg

Underdress of jaconet muslin, trimmed with lace, or embroidery.

From Project Gutenberg