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