clothing

noun

cloth·​ing ˈklō-t͟hiŋ 

: items (as of cloth) designed to be worn to cover the body

The children and their teachers strolled up the path, the colors of their winter clothing bright against the monotone of the field.

—Ward Just

… radiating vibrance through her bright clothing and makeup.

—Hannah Jones

also : coverings

… seeks to regulate and adopt flammability standards to upholstered furniture, mattresses, bed clothing and candles.

—Home Textiles Today

Synonyms

• apparel
• attire
• clobber [British slang]
• clothes
• costumery
• dress
• duds
• garments
• gear
• habiliment(s)
• habit [archaic]
• rags
• raiment
• rig
• rigging
• threads
• toggery
• togs
• vestiary
• vestments
• vesture
• wear
• wearables
• weeds

Examples of clothing in a Sentence

an expensive article of clothing

We're collecting food and clothing for the poor.

Only people wearing protective clothing may enter the room.

Recent Examples on the Web

Our tax dollars have been supporting millions of illegals who are given asylum, free clothing, free phones, free lodging. —Letters To The Editor, Orange County Register, 13 June 2024

The price of airfare, furniture, clothing, new vehicles, energy and recreation fell in May, helping contain inflation. —Kate Gibson, CBS News, 12 June 2024

Be sure to include clothing for different weather conditions, a first aid kit, snacks, and drinks. —Hilary Tetenbaum, Detroit Free Press, 11 June 2024

Prepare your car safety kit with blankets, extra clothing, water and snacks. —Tamia Fowlkes, Journal Sentinel, 11 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing clothing

• nonrestrictive clothing
• not wearing a stitch (of clothes/clothing)
• wolf in sheep's clothing

Kids Definition

clothing

noun

cloth·​ing ˈklō-t͟hiŋ 

1

: covering for the human body

2

: something that covers or conceals