activewear

noun

ac·​tive·​wear ˈak-tiv-ˌwer 

: athletic clothing especially when used for both exercise and casual wear

Is activewear just for the gym? Hit the streets in almost any city and you'll immediately get your answer: a resounding, no. Whenever we're out we see girls shopping in yoga clothes, or mixing sweats into their day-to-day looks.

—Christina Holevas

also : athleisure

Whether for running laps, running errands, serving on the court or serving chic style, these breathable activewear dresses prove that performance and style go hand in hand.

—Layne Van Vranken

Examples of activewear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The brand launched as a swimwear label before moving fully into activewear in 2023, building a following among women who want their workout wardrobe to reflect their personal style. — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 28 Sep. 2026

With the rise of activewear as a high-fashion option, black biker shorts are no longer relegated to yoga studios and barre classes. — Kelsey Stiegman, Glamour, 19 Sep. 2026

Underwear, socks, T-shirts, tank tops and activewear should all go in after every wear. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 17 Sep. 2026

This belt bag from Pander looks strikingly similar to a more expensive activewear brand’s. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 17 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

active entry 1 + -wear (as in sportswear, underwear)

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for activewear

• concessionaire
• abwehr
• affair
• affaire
• airfare
• altair
• armchair
• aware
• beware
• bugbear
• carfare
• childcare

Kids Definition

activewear

noun

ac·​tive·​wear ˈak-tiv-ˌwa(ə)r 

-ˌwe(ə)r

: sportswear