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

The highlights were a hoop-skirt reimagined as a circus tent and a blue duster cardigan with hand motifs knitting a red scarf. —Ari Stark, Footwear News, 11 May 2026

More elevated than a usual hoodie, the cardigan adds stylish ways to incorporate pieces of the set into your outfit throughout your trip. —Nneya Richards, Travel + Leisure, 11 May 2026

The shoes have a polished look that makes outfits feel complete, whether paired with a sundress, wide-leg pants and blouse, or jeans and a cardigan. —Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 9 May 2026

Style them for a polished weekend look with Almina Concept’s soft gray cardigan, Flore Flore’s butter-yellow deep-V tank, and woven Le Monde Béryl loafers for a touch of texture. —Laura Jackson, Vogue, 7 May 2026

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