outfitter
UK: ˈaʊtfɪtə | US: ˈaʊtfɪtər
n. a person or business that provides equipment or clothing for a specific purpose or activity
n. a store specializing in selling outdoor gear or specialized attire
The word "outfitter" combines "outfit," meaning to equip or supply (originating from the phrase "out fit," where "out" implies readiness and "fit" derives from Old English "fitt," meaning a division or provision), with the agent suffix "-er." Historically, an outfitter was someone who prepared ships or expeditions with necessary gear. By the 19th century, it expanded to retailers supplying specialized clothing or equipment, reflecting the word's logical progression from action (equipping) to the person/business performing it.
The mountain outfitter provided tents and climbing gear for our expedition.
He visited a hunting outfitter to buy camouflage clothing.
The ski outfitter adjusted my boots for better performance.
Early explorers relied on local outfitters for survival tools.
She opened an equestrian outfitter to cater to horse riders.