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

Shewin Collared Cardigan Sweater For something with a bit more structure, try this cardigan that fits more like a blazer or shacket. —Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 5 Dec. 2025

Buckle-front Cardigan From bows to buckles, unconventional cardigan closures are in vogue right now. —Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 4 Dec. 2025

And knowing that closet space can be tight this time of year—coats and cardigans take up so much room—you’ll want to prioritize the stuff. —India Roby, Glamour, 2 Dec. 2025

In addition to the windows and pop-ups, the brand is offering pieces exclusive to Harrods, including casual outerwear styles in cashmere or shearling, and sweaters and cardigans in the brand’s signature soft neutrals. —Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 1 Dec. 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