underdress

[uhn-der-dres, uhn-der-dres]

verb (used without object)

underdressed, underdrest, underdressing. 

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

A Times photographer and I, slightly underdressed, scuttled past the valet and into the backyard.

From Los Angeles Times

As I waited for my cappuccino in a line of VIP shoppers and newsletter subscribers sporting an abundance of Chanel handbags, I felt underdressed in jeans, sans blowout.

From Los Angeles Times

Then one evening, in front of Sarah and Mark and a sad bowl of underdressed salad, she tells him that she heard what he said.

From New York Times

So perhaps I jumped to the conclusion that Roy and Keeley were back together after the former showed up conspicuously underdressed in the latter’s apartment following his “stuck” revelation and subsequent letter.

From New York Times

The two young women arrive at the posh Beverly Hills bistro so underdressed in T-shirts and beach shorts they are at first refused entry.

From Washington Post