underdress

American  

[uhn-der-dres, uhn-der-dres] / ˌʌn dərˈdrɛs, ˈʌn dərˌdrɛs /

verb (used without object)

underdressed, underdrest, underdressing

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

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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.

Etymology

Origin of underdress

First recorded in 1775–85; under- + dress

Example Sentences

His biggest etiquette pet peeves include underdressing and overfamiliarity, especially in virtual settings.

From The Wall Street Journal

When her rival, Poot’s Thea, arrives underdressed, Hedda forces her into a hideous frock with fussy bows and an ungainly skirt.

From Los Angeles Times

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