costumes 1 of 2

plural of costume
1
as in dresses
clothing chosen as appropriate for a specific situation a tuxedo is the only acceptable costume for men attending a formal event

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in masks
clothing put on to hide one's true identity or imitate someone or something else Halloween costumes that caricature some of the "celebrities" created by the media over the past year

Synonyms & Similar Words

costumes

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of costume

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of costumes
Noun
At the 2019 Emmys, The Handmaid’s Tale picked up 11 nominations and three wins in categories like writing, directing, cinematography, costumes, music, editing, and guest acting (Bradley Whitford and Cherry Jones swept the drama guest awards) for a season that had half-aired the year before. Joe Reid, Vulture, 20 June 2026 The cheerleaders were also not allowed to attend parties or wear jewelry with their costumes, according to a 1978 story in the newspaper. Emily Krauser, PEOPLE, 20 June 2026 Whose job was it to come up with their costumes? Danielle Parker, CBS News, 19 June 2026 In 1980, Uncanny X-Men was one of the most influential comics at Marvel, attracting readers with its stories of heroes shunned by society, yet willing to don costumes and save a world that hated and feared them. Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 18 June 2026 For example, competitive dance can cost a lot, between costumes, competition, and travel, Schneider notes. Parents, 18 June 2026 Gabriela Aceves did the makeup and Christy Haupman handled costumes. Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 18 June 2026 The costumes can weigh up to fifty pounds, and in the scorching June heat of central Spain, temperatures easily climb above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Catherine Tansey, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 June 2026 My children still rave about The Playbarn, a play area for babies and toddlers that’s chockablock with toys, puzzles, costumes, and crafts. Lindsay Cohn, Travel + Leisure, 13 June 2026
Verb
Stewart recounted New York’s enthusiastic reaction to the Knicks winning, including the appearance of multiple Spider-Man costumes, a dancing MTA bus driver, and a drum line. Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 16 June 2026 The same girls who’d posted winking pop-culture-reference couples Halloween costumes a few years ago were now posting their toddlers in their own pop-culture-reference costumes. Literary Hub, 9 Apr. 2026 To make that medicine go down easier, RAYE costumes her fatalism in a baroque maximalism. Boutayna Chokrane, Pitchfork, 2 Apr. 2026 It is celebrated with a ceremonious parade that features a cavalcade of men dressed in Roman soldier costumes, evoking a sense of solemn thanksgiving and spiritual devotion. Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026 The room houses costumes for performances for the entire year, and there are about 40 years of costumes in the room. Najahe Sherman, CBS News, 22 Dec. 2025 The company brought its famous mascot — the beloved Morton Salt Girl, who every year inspires who knows how many Halloween costumes. Kansas City Star, 13 Nov. 2025 Those costumes from the original Broadway production, including the Schuyler sisters’ winter ball gowns, Hamilton, Jefferson and Burr’s suits, as well as King George’s outfit, are all featured among the exhibit, too. Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 5 Nov. 2025 Here are five tips for creating last-minute DIY KPop Demon Hunters Halloween costumes. Jordana Comiter, PEOPLE, 30 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for costumes
Noun
  • Public outrage over how a female pop star dresses has, of course, recurred long before Rodrigo became a household name.
    Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
  • Amazon has marked down everything from matching sets and breezy dresses to flowy palazzo pants that can handle long flights, sightseeing days, and dinner reservations without missing a beat.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • Yordan Alvarez authoring a season worthy of American League MVP honors masks some of Altuve’s malaise.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 20 June 2026
  • These pick-me-up masks will give a boost to your self-care routine.
    ABC News, ABC News, 20 June 2026
Noun
  • Working with sister stylist duo Chloe and Chenelle Delgadillo, Rodrigo has reconstructed her signature looks to feel softer and more grown-up, with outfits drawing from fashion references just as diverse as her musical taste.
    Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
  • Its glossy fabric and breezy silhouette work for countless occasions — plus, its luxe vibe dresses up outfits without a thought.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Costumes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/costumes. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.

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