noun

bloomers

Bloomers (noun) means Loose, baggy trousers gathered at the knee, historically worn by women. Example: “The costume included old-fashioned bloomers and a bonnet.”

noun

Loose, baggy trousers gathered at the knee, historically worn by women.

"The costume included old-fashioned bloomers and a bonnet."

(informal) Women's underpants, especially old-fashioned or comically large ones.

"She wore frilly bloomers under her Victorian dress."

How to use bloomers

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishLoose trousers or old-fashioned underwear, named after activist Amelia Bloomer.

Common pairings

frilly bloomers

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The costume included old-fashioned _____ and a bonnet.

Etymology

Named after 19th-century American women's-rights activist Amelia Bloomer, who popularised the garment.

· First attested 1800

Class of 1800 bloomers joined the language around 1800.

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Rhymes for bloomers

Somers

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Frequently asked questions

What does “bloomers” mean?

The word “bloomers” means loose, baggy trousers gathered at the knee, historically worn by women. In plain terms, loose trousers or old-fashioned underwear, named after activist Amelia Bloomer.

How do you use “bloomers” in a sentence?

Here is “bloomers” used in a sentence: “The costume included old-fashioned bloomers and a bonnet.”

What part of speech is “bloomers”?

“Bloomers” is a noun.

Where does the word “bloomers” come from?

The word “bloomers” dates back to around 1800. Named after 19th-century American women's-rights activist Amelia Bloomer, who popularised the garment.

How many meanings does “bloomers” have?

“Bloomers” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: loose, baggy trousers gathered at the knee, historically worn by women.