costume
UK: ˈkɒstjuːm | US: ˈkɑːstuːm
n. a set of clothes worn to portray a specific character, era, or culture
n. traditional or historical clothing representative of a region or period
n. attire for theatrical or festive purposes
costume = cost<custom> + ume<noun suffix>
- cost (from Latin consuetudo, meaning "custom" or "habit")
- ume (a suffix derived from Latin -umen, often forming nouns related to state or condition)
Etymology Origin:
The word "costume" traces back to Latin consuetudo (custom), reflecting how clothing traditions are tied to cultural habits. Over time, Italian costume narrowed to mean "fashion" or "attire," and French adopted it as costume for theatrical dress. English borrowed it in the 18th century, emphasizing clothing that signifies identity or role.
She wore a medieval costume to the Renaissance fair.
The actors changed into their costumes backstage.
Traditional Japanese costumes include kimonos and yukatas.
His pirate costume won first prize at the party.
The museum displayed costumes from 19th-century Europe.