bell-bottoms

plural noun

bell-bot·​toms ˈbel-ˈbä-təmz How to pronounce bell-bottoms (audio)
: pants with wide flaring bottoms
bell-bottom adjective

Examples of bell-bottoms in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The jeans have a mid-rise waistline, a tight yet supportive fit around the midsection, and subtle bell-bottom flares that add a touch of retro charm to any fall ensemble. Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 30 Sep. 2025 With oversized layers Lean into the shape of a pair of bell-bottoms by bringing the same relaxed energy to your top half. Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 25 Sep. 2025 Dressed in a black hat, black bell-bottoms, and a jacket with turquoise accents, the Louisiana country singer gave a soulful, twangy reading of the riverboat tale, effortlessly commanding the crowd with just a few shimmies and finger points. Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 9 Sep. 2025 The bell-bottoms have tons of ’70s flair (pun intended!), along with a high waistline and eye-catching stitching along the knees and back pockets. Clara McMahon, People.com, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bell-bottoms

Word History

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bell-bottoms was in 1904

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Cite this Entry

“Bell-bottoms.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bell-bottoms. Accessed 4 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

bell-bottoms

plural noun
bell-bot·​toms
ˈbel-ˈbät-əmz
: pants with legs that widen out at the bottom
bell-bottom adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on bell-bottoms

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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