B1noun2K

Underwear

UK /["/ˈʌndəweə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈʌndərwer/"]/

Definition

clothes that you wear under other clothes and next to the skin

In simple words: Clothing worn under other clothes, usually close to the skin.

Examples

I never wear underwear.
clean/thermal underwear
She packed one change of underwear.
Some mothers can't even afford to buy underwear for their kids.
He was getting cold standing around in his underwear.
He stripped to his underwear and dived into the water.
men's/women's underwear

Usage notes

Used in everyday conversation. Generally appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but may be avoided in highly formal situations or when discussing clothing styles. Can vary regionally in types of underwear.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'under' as where it is worn — underneath your clothes.

Collocations

long
skimpy
thong
change
set
pair
in your underwear

Synonyms

lingerie
undergarments
intimates
foundation garments

Antonyms

outerwear
overgarments
clothes

Common mistakes

Confused with 'outerwear' which is clothing worn on the outside.
Mispronounced as 'underware'.
Using the singular 'underwear' in contexts that require a plural form.