Dress Meaning

UK /drɛs/
US /drɛs/
Word Definition
dress meaning

Dress Definition & Usage

noun

A garment worn by women and girls, typically consisting of a bodice and a skirt, and often extending to the knees or lower.

Examples

  • "She wore a beautiful red dress to the party."
  • "The bride's dress sparkled under the lights as she walked down the aisle."
  • "He complimented her on the elegant dress she wore to the gala."
  • "I bought a new dress for the summer wedding."
  • "The dress was too short for the formal event."
verb

To put on or wear a dress or other clothing.

Examples

  • "She dressed quickly before heading out to meet her friends."
  • "He dressed in a suit for the job interview."
  • "Before leaving the house, she dressed her baby in a cute onesie."
  • "They dressed the mannequins in the latest fashion for the window display."
  • "I need to dress warmly; it's getting cold outside."
verb

To decorate or adorn something, often in a way that makes it more attractive or appealing.

Examples

  • "They dressed the table with beautiful flowers for the dinner party."
  • "The house was dressed for the holidays with lights and ornaments."
  • "The cake was dressed with a rich layer of frosting and sprinkles."
  • "The event space was dressed with elegant curtains and chandeliers."
  • "She dressed the tree with ribbons and golden stars."

Cultural Context

The word 'dress' has evolved over centuries, from its early meaning of 'to arrange' or 'to prepare' (from Old French 'dresser') to its current use in reference to a piece of clothing for women. Historically, the dress was associated with formal or ceremonial wear, but over time it has come to encompass a broad range of styles, including casual and everyday wear.

The Dress That Changed Everything

Story

The Dress That Changed Everything

Lily stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the straps of the dress she had just pulled on. It was an elegant, deep blue creation, the kind of dress that made her feel like she could conquer the world. She had never been one for fancy clothes, but this dress was different—it was a gift from her grandmother, passed down through generations. The moment she slipped it on, something shifted inside her. She no longer felt like the shy, introverted woman who had always faded into the background. Today, she was a force to be reckoned with. As she walked out of her apartment, the dress billowed slightly with each step, catching the light in a way that made her feel as if she were walking through a dream. She was on her way to an important job interview, a pivotal moment in her life. Lily had dressed carefully—her outfit was simple yet sophisticated, and she hoped it would convey the confidence she had always struggled to show. When she arrived at the office, the receptionist smiled and commented on her dress, instantly making her feel more at ease. The interview went smoothly, and for the first time in a long while, Lily felt like she truly belonged in the room. As she walked out after the meeting, she couldn't help but think about how much that dress had done for her today. Later, Lily returned home and stood in front of the mirror once more. As she took off the dress, she realized something important: the dress hadn't changed her, it had simply helped her find the confidence that was always inside her. It was a simple piece of clothing, but it had dressed her in the self-assurance she needed to take on the world. With a smile, she hung it up carefully, knowing that it would always be there to remind her of her strength.

The Dress That Changed Everything