underwear

noun

un·​der·​wear ˈən-dər-ˌwer 

: clothing or an article of clothing worn next to the skin and under other clothing

Synonyms of underwear

• panties
• pants
• undergarments
• undies
• underclothes
• underclothing
• pajamas
• unmentionables
• lingerie

Examples of underwear in a Sentence

he had been sleeping in his underwear so he had to put a robe on before answering the door

Recent Examples on the Web

Manas, known for radical size inclusivity, showed a SS27 collection made in partnership with Belgian underwear brand Primadonna, featuring sheer bodysuits and architectural bustiers. — Rachael Akhidenor, Vogue, 19 Oct. 2026

There is more work to be done and women's underwear to redesign. — Sean Joseph Outkick, FOXNews.com, 18 Oct. 2026

The event will showcase 100 collections of fabrics and accessories for beachwear, underwear and athleisure for Summer 2028. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026

Women's Boxer Briefs & Bralettes Say goodbye to uncomfortable underwear that digs. — ABC News, 12 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing underwear

• change of underwear
• in one's underwear
• long/thermal underwear
• long underwear

Rhymes for underwear

• aftercare
• anywhere
• billionaire
• chinaware
• debonair
• dinnerware
• disrepair
• doctrinaire
• earthenware
• everywhere
• frigidaire
• kitchenware

Kids Definition

underwear

noun

un·​der·​wear ˈən-dər-ˌwa(ə)r 

-ˌwe(ə)r

: clothing or an article of clothing worn next to the skin and under other clothing