dress down

verb

dressed down; dressing down; dresses down

transitive verb

: to reprove severely

intransitive verb

: to dress casually especially for reasons of fashion

Examples of dress down in a Sentence

dressed down for boorish behavior at the dance
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.
Workwear styling aside, the pants can be easily dressed down with a T-shirt and sneakers for casual outings. Emily Weaver, People.com, 10 July 2025 Use the sleek stepper as a way to dress up a Pilates uniform or dress down bohemian dresses, showing your sporty side and tapping into some juxtaposition this season. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 25 June 2025 This faded Madewell Denim Trucker Jacket is currently on sale for 50 percent off and instantly dresses down even your most feminine frocks. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 18 June 2025 Whether paired with a blouse for a day in the office or dressed down with a T-shirt for more casual occasions, skinny pants are a smart staple to have on hand. Averi Baudler, People.com, 5 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for dress down

Word History

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of dress down was in 1852

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dress down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dress%20down. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

dress down

verb
1
: to criticize severely
2
: to dress casually
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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