clothing

noun

cloth·​ing ˈklō-t͟hiŋ 

: items (as of cloth) designed to be worn to cover the body

The children and their teachers strolled up the path, the colors of their winter clothing bright against the monotone of the field.

—Ward Just

… radiating vibrance through her bright clothing and makeup.

—Hannah Jones

also : coverings

… seeks to regulate and adopt flammability standards to upholstered furniture, mattresses, bed clothing and candles.

—Home Textiles Today

Synonyms of clothing

• clothes
• attire
• garments
• apparel
• dress

Examples of clothing in a Sentence

an expensive article of clothing

We're collecting food and clothing for the poor.

Only people wearing protective clothing may enter the room.

Recent Examples on the Web

Browse the traditional and contemporary clothing, learn about their relevance, and seize the chance to inspect them closely. —Regina Zumarraga, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2026

Regularly washing produce, cleaning household dust, and choosing natural fibers like cotton, wool, and linen over synthetic clothing can further minimize exposure. —Editorial, Boston Herald, 27 Apr. 2026

The state defines neglect as intentionally not meeting a child’s basic needs, such as adequate food or weather-appropriate clothing. —Meg Wingerter, Denver Post, 26 Apr. 2026

All detainees are provided with 3 meals a day, clean water, clothing, bedding, showers, soap, and toiletries. —Nick Lentz, CBS News, 26 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing clothing

• nonrestrictive clothing
• not wearing a stitch (of clothes/clothing)
• wolf in sheep's clothing

Rhymes for clothing

• underclothing

Kids Definition

clothing

noun

cloth·​ing ˈklō-t͟hiŋ 

1

: covering for the human body

2

: something that covers or conceals