apparel

The word “apparel” means clothing, especially as a category of goods. In plain terms, a somewhat formal word for clothing, often used in retail and business contexts.

“Apparel” is pronounced uh-PA-ruhl (/əˈpæ.ɹəl/ in IPA).

Here is “apparel” used in a sentence: “The store sells outdoor apparel for hikers and campers.”

Words with a similar meaning to “apparel” include dight, don, put on and ornament.

Depending on how it is used, “apparel” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “apparel” comes from Old French. From Old French apareillier, related to "apparel" as in outfitting or preparing something.

“Apparel” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Apparel” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: clothing, especially as a category of goods.

Apparel is a slightly more formal, often commercial term used to describe clothing as a category of goods, such as in store names or retail categories. Clothing is the everyday, general word for items worn on the body. In practice the two are interchangeable, but apparel appears more often in business, fashion, and marketing contexts.

Apparel leans formal and is commonly used in retail, legal, and business writing, such as "men's apparel" or "protective apparel." In casual conversation, most people simply say clothes or clothing instead.

Yes, apparel can be used as a verb meaning to dress or clothe someone, often elaborately, though this usage is now rare and mostly literary or archaic. In modern everyday speech and writing, apparel functions almost exclusively as a noun.