What does gusset mean?
A gusset is a small panel of fabric inserted into a garment, usually beneath the arm, to add room and make the garment easier to move in. Because it is built into the seams rather than worn on the surface, it is often an unnoticed but essential feature of shirts, jackets, and other close-fitting clothing. The word also has a technical engineering use for a triangular metal plate or reinforcement that helps join structural members. In everyday use, “gusset” suggests both construction and flexibility: the gusset is what allows a sleeve, shoulder, or other assembly to flex without pulling awkwardly or splitting. The term is more characteristic of tailoring, textiles, and engineering than of general conversation, but it names a small design solution with a large effect on comfort and strength. Its history also reflects the word’s practical origin in French cloth-making terminology.
nounA small panel of fabric inserted into a garment, typically beneath the arm, to provide extra fabric and ease movement. In engineering, the term may also designate a triangular plate or other reinforcement used to connect structural members.
- A small panel of fabric inserted beneath the arm or into another part of a garment to ease movement or improve fit.
- A triangular metal plate or similar reinforcement used to connect structural members at an angle.
"The tailor added a gusset under each sleeve so the jacket would be easier to move in."
"The tailor added a gusset under each sleeve so the jacket would be easier to move in."
"A steel gusset reinforces the joint between the two supports."
The regular plural is used for both fabric panels and structural reinforcements.
"The designer reinforced the armholes with contrasting gussets."
A gusset is a tailor's hidden joint: a small fabric wedge that turns a restrictive garment into one that bends.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does gusset come from?
The word entered English in the late 16th century from French gosset, a diminutive of gousse, an older French term for a piece of cloth. It originally referred to a small cloth panel used in garments, and its later technical application extended the idea of an inserted or connecting piece to engineering. French gousset remains a cognate used for a similar garment and engineering feature.
Related word forms
How gusset is actually used
This is primarily a technical term used in tailoring, textiles, and engineering rather than in everyday conversation.
Easily confused with gusset
A gasket seals a gap between components, whereas a gusset reinforces or connects parts and can provide flexibility.