outfit

[out-fit]

noun

1. an assemblage of articles that equip a person for a particular task, role, trade, etc..

   an explorer's outfit.

   Synonyms: kit

2. a set of usually matching or harmonious garments and accessories worn together; coordinated costume; ensemble.

   a new spring outfit.

3. a set of articles for any purpose.

   a cooking outfit.

   Synonyms: kit

4. a group associated in an undertaking requiring close cooperation, as a military unit.

5. a business firm engaged in a particular form of commercial enterprise.

   a construction outfit.

6. any company, party, or set.

7. the act of fitting out or equipping for any purpose, as for a voyage, journey, or expedition.

8. mental, physical, or moral equipment.

verb (used with object)

outfitted, outfitting 

1. to furnish with an outfit, equipment, etc.; fit out; equip.

   to outfit an expedition to the South Pole.

   Synonyms: rig, supply, appoint

2. Nautical.,  to finish equipping (a vessel) at a dock.

verb (used without object)

outfitted, outfitting 

1. to furnish oneself with an outfit.

outfit

/ ˈaʊtˌfɪt /

noun

1. a set of articles or equipment for a particular task, occupation, etc

2. a set of clothes, esp a carefully selected one

3. informal,  any group or association regarded as a cohesive unit, such as a military company, business house, etc

4. the act of fitting out

5. (formerly) the annual shipment of trading goods and supplies sent by a fur company to its trading posts

verb

1. to furnish or be furnished with an outfit, equipment, etc

Other Word Forms

• outfitter noun
• preoutfit verb (used with object)
• reoutfit verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of outfit¹

First recorded in 1755–65; out- + fit ¹

Example Sentences

Compared to Namewee, Hsieh was not as famous across Asia, although she had a fairly strong following on social media and was known for posting photos of herself in revealing outfits.

Read more on BBC

A nonprofit outfit could be more nimble in upgrading antiquated air-traffic systems.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

During the case, Varyukhina posted clips on Instagram of the couple goofing around in an apartment and dressing up in funny outfits.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He personally oversaw the design of a racy chatbot called Ani, an animated character with blonde pigtails and revealing outfits.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The move transformed the niche Baltic outfit into one of the world’s biggest trading operations.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

When To Use

What does outfit mean?

Outfit commonly means a set of clothes, especially when they have been designed or carefully selected to be worn together.Outfit can also be used as a term for a company, organization, or group that works closely together. As a verb, it means to provide with the proper equipment.Example: Oh, I just love your outfit—I would have never thought to mix a flower pattern with a leopard print.