cardigan

noun

car·​di·​gan ˈkär-di-gən 

: a usually collarless sweater or jacket that opens the full length of the center front

Examples of cardigan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Marisa Abela wore a cardigan and Pink Ladies varsity jacket that belonged to Amy Winehouse for the 2024 film on the late singer-songwriter. —Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 18 June 2025

This tie-front cardigan is breathable and easy to pack while acting as a light layer to wear during dinner or while sightseeing, and the delicate crochet detailing matches perfectly with the braided straps of these ornate yet easy-to-walk-in sandals. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 18 June 2025

Not to mention, Reese Witherspoon was spotted in a white short-sleeve cardigan last summer. —Jamie Allison Sanders, People.com, 12 June 2025

For a casual weekend at the local farmers market, followed by a stroll through the park, wear the dress with boat shoes and a cardigan tied around your shoulders. —Kelsey Stewart, Glamour, 10 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

James Thomas Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan †1868 English soldier

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cardigan

noun

car·​di·​gan ˈkärd-i-gən 

: a usually collarless sweater opening down the front

Geographical Definition

Cardigan

geographical name

Car·​di·​gan ˈkär-di-gən 

variants or Cardiganshire

ˈkär-di-gən-ˌshir 

-shər

former county of western Wales; capital Aberystwyth