Part of Speech

Noun (uncountable, plural: apparels)

Pronunciation

/əˈpærəl/

Definitions

1. Clothing, especially outerwear; garments worn to cover the body.
2. The collective term for garments worn by people; attire or dress.
3. Clothing items that are designed for a specific purpose, such as formal, casual, or sportswear.

Usage Examples

• She chose her best apparel for the evening event.
• The shop specializes in outdoor apparel for hiking and camping.
• The latest fashion trends in winter apparel include fur-lined coats and boots.

Etymology

The word "apparel" comes from the Middle English "apparail," which itself is derived from Old French "apparail," meaning "preparation, equipment," from "aparaillier" meaning "to prepare or arrange." It originally referred to the act of dressing or preparing something, later coming to mean the clothing worn.

Synonyms

• Clothing
• Attire
• Garments
• Dress
• Outfit
• Wardrobe

Antonyms

• Bare
• Undressed
• Exposed

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In British English, the pronunciation may emphasize the first syllable more, while in American English, it is often pronounced with a more neutral stress across both syllables.

Historical Usage

The word "apparel" has been used since the Middle Ages, with its original meaning referring to the equipment or preparation for a task, which later evolved to describe the clothes one wears. The use of "apparel" in modern English is primarily to refer to clothing, particularly outer garments or formal attire.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, apparel holds significant meaning and can denote status, profession, or cultural identity. For instance, in Western cultures, formal apparel like suits and dresses is associated with business or ceremonial events, while in traditional cultures, specific garments may denote ethnic or religious affiliations.

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