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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- attires
- Third person singular
- attires
- Past tense
- attired
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."
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.
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