underwear

UK: ˈʌndəweə | US: ˈʌndərwer

Definition

  1. n. clothing worn under outer garments, typically next to the skin

Structure
under <beneath>wear <clothing>
Etymology

The word "underwear" is a straightforward compound of "under" (Old English under, meaning "beneath") and "wear" (Old English werian, meaning "to clothe"). It emerged in the early 19th century to describe garments worn beneath outer clothing. The logic is transparent: "under" denotes position, while "wear" refers to attire, collectively forming a functional term for intimate apparel.

Examples

  1. She packed clean underwear for her trip.

  2. Cotton underwear is comfortable in hot weather.

  3. He forgot to bring extra underwear to the gym.

  4. The store specializes in organic bamboo underwear.

  5. Always check the label when buying new underwear.