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

A friend who was at the party with me recalls that, as underdressed as he was, Epstein pulled everyone’s focus to him—even the most powerful people in the room.

From The Wall Street Journal

I was already looking forward to seeing how Biebs planned to bring the radically underdressed “Swag” to Coachella in a few months.

From Los Angeles Times

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