Skirt
UK /["/skɜːt/"]/US /["/skɜːrt/"]/
Definition
a piece of clothing that hangs from the middle part of the body
In simple words: A piece of clothing that hangs from the waist and goes down to a certain length.
Examples
- She wore a beautiful blue skirt to the party.
- The long skirt flowed elegantly as she walked.
- He decided to skirt the issue rather than confront it directly.
- Students often skirt around the rules during lunchtime.
- The kids like to skirt along the edge of the playground.
Usage notes
Use 'skirt' when referring to women's clothing. It is appropriate in casual and formal contexts but may be less formal in everyday conversations. Avoid using it in contexts where gender-neutral terms are preferred.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of a 'skirt' swirling around a dancer to remember its shape.
Collocations
- long
- short
- ankle-length
- hike up
- hitch up
- lift
- billow
- swirl
- ride up
- length
- suit
- the hem of somebody’s skirt
- long
- short
- ankle-length
- hike up
- hitch up
- lift
- billow
- swirl
- ride up
- length
- suit
- the hem of somebody’s skirt
Synonyms
- dress
- kilt
- wrap
- bottom
Antonyms
- trousers
- shorts
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'shirt' as they sound similar.
- May use 'skirt' to mean 'to avoid' when referring to tasks.
- Often misspell it as 'skert'.