English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun Uncommon

attire

uh-TY

Attire (noun) means Clothing, especially of a particular style appropriate to an occasion. Example: “Formal attire is required for the gala.”

noun
1
Clothing, especially of a particular style appropriate to an occasion.
"Formal attire is required for the gala."
verb
1
To dress or adorn someone, typically in fine or formal clothing.
"She was attired in a stunning silk gown."

How to use attire

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA somewhat formal word for clothing, or the act of dressing someone in it.

When to use it

More formal than "clothes" or "outfit" — common on invitations and dress codes.

Common pairings
formal attire business attire attired in

Word forms

attired past tense, attires plural, attires singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “attire” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Formal _____ is required for the gala.

Etymology

From Old French atirier, "to equip, put in order," related to a word meaning "rank" or "order."

Origin: Old French

Related words

Rhymes for attire

See all rhymes for attire →

Frequently asked questions

What does “attire” mean?

The word “attire” means clothing, especially of a particular style appropriate to an occasion. In plain terms, a somewhat formal word for clothing, or the act of dressing someone in it.

How do you pronounce “attire”?

“Attire” is pronounced uh-TY (/əˈtaɪɚ/ in IPA).

How do you use “attire” in a sentence?

Here is “attire” used in a sentence: “Formal attire is required for the gala.”

What part of speech is “attire”?

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

Where does the word “attire” come from?

The word “attire” comes from Old French. From Old French atirier, "to equip, put in order," related to a word meaning "rank" or "order.".

Is “attire” a common word?

“Attire” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “attire” have?

“Attire” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: clothing, especially of a particular style appropriate to an occasion.

Featured in

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial