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lingerie

lahn-zhuh-RAY /ˌlɑːndʒəˈreɪ/

nounB2

neutralfashion

Women's underwear, nightwear, or lightweight robes, typically designed to be fashionable, delicate, or alluring.

While 'underwear' implies pure utility and daily function, 'lingerie' carries connotations of luxury, aesthetic appeal, and sensuality, often featuring lace, silk, or satin.

The story behind the word. Historically, almost all undergarments were made of white linen because it was easy to wash and boil. In 19th-century France, the term lingerie was coined to refer collectively to all linen goods, including sheets and shirts, before evolving to mean exclusively delicate, fashionable women's undergarments.

Word relationships

undergarments: Undergarments is a broad, clinical term for anything worn under clothing, whereas lingerie specifically implies stylish, feminine intimate wear.
intimates: Intimates is a modern retail industry term that includes lingerie but also covers basic sleepwear and lounge items.

outerwear: Outerwear refers to garments worn over all other clothing, designed for public visibility and weather protection.

Commonly confused with

undergarment: Undergarment is gender-neutral and utilitarian; lingerie is typically feminine and fashion-focused.

Word family

lingerie-inspired (adjective): Describing outerwear that mimics the style, lace, or silkiness of intimate apparel.

Collocations

fine lingerie
silk lingerie
lingerie boutique
designer lingerie

Example sentences

"The boutique specialized in imported French lingerie, attracting customers who valued both craftsmanship and fine silk." A discussion of luxury retail trends in a business journal.
"Her drawers were filled with delicate lingerie, scented with dried lavender and wrapped in tissue paper." A classic literary description of a character's wardrobe.

Memory hook

Think of 'linen' and 'lingering' looks. Lingerie is delicate underwear made originally from fine linen that makes you want to linger. Lingerie: The luxury linen that lingers in the mind.

When not to use

Do not use to describe standard, utilitarian men's undergarments or heavy-duty athletic support wear.

Fun facts

The shift of lingerie from a hidden utility to a visible fashion statement was accelerated in the 1990s by the 'underwear as outerwear' trend popularized by designers like Jean Paul Gaultier.

Related words

chemise, bustier, camisole

Explore more words

delicate, corset, leggings, allure, attire, apparel