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 of clothing

• clothes
• attire
• garments
• apparel
• dress

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

The exhibit explored the stories of Black style told through clothing by the African diaspora beginning in the 18th century. —Luis Giraldo, CBS News, 4 May 2026

Vuori sells clothing inspired by the California coastal lifestyle. —Ella Gonzales may 4, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 May 2026

For more than a decade, MADE MOBB has built a presence in Kansas City that extends well beyond clothing. —Kansas City Star, 4 May 2026

Microplastics are tiny particles of plastic that come from the slow breakdown of larger trash, such as clothing, packaging and car tires. —Doyle Rice, USA Today, 4 May 2026

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

Rhymes for clothing

• underclothing

Kids Definition

clothing

noun

cloth·​ing ˈklō-t͟hiŋ 

1

: covering for the human body

2

: something that covers or conceals