What does hoody mean?
A hoody is an informal word for a hooded sweatshirt, a garment typically made from soft cotton or fleece and worn for warmth, comfort, exercise, or casual outings. It often has long sleeves, a front pocket, and drawstrings at the neck. The term is especially associated with North American informal English, although the garment itself is now widespread internationally. “Hoodie” is the more conventional spelling and is generally preferred in formal writing, but “hoody” is common in everyday conversation and may appear in branding, sports, and youth culture. Its meaning is straightforward: it names the clothing item rather than merely the hood attached to it. In the United States, “hoody” can also carry a cultural association with particular music, sports, or streetwear styles, but these associations vary by community and should not be treated as the word’s core meaning.
nounA hooded sweatshirt, especially one with a pocket in front and drawstrings at the neck. The word is an informal variant spelling of “hoodie.”
- A hooded sweatshirt, usually worn for casual or athletic activities.
"She put on her hoody before heading out into the rain."
"He pulled the hood of his hoody up as the wind picked up."
"The event’s organizers asked volunteers to wear a black hoody with the company logo."
The usual plural is “hoodies.”
"The shop sells hoodies in several colors."
“Hoody” is the informal spelling that helped make the hoodie a global symbol of casual comfort.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hoody
“Hoody” is a spelling variant of “hoodie,” a term formed from “hood” and the familiar suffix “-ie,” which gives the garment a casual or affectionate name. The clothing term developed in the later 20th century as hooded sweatshirts became associated with sport, fashion, and youth culture. The alternative spelling “hoody” follows the same informal pattern and became especially familiar in North American English.
Related word forms
How hoody is actually used
Informal and somewhat less standard than “hoodie.” It is especially common in North American speech and informal writing, while “hoodie” is preferred in formal contexts and in many other varieties of English.
Easily confused with hoody
“Hoody” is an informal spelling variant of “hoodie,” though “hoodie” is the more standard term.
A hoody is the entire garment, while a hood is only the covering attached to or worn over the head.