What does jumpsuit mean?
A jumpsuit is a one-piece garment with a top and trousers joined at the waist, usually fastened by a zipper. It can range from practical workwear and sports clothing to formal evening attire, and the word does not imply a particular style or purpose. Denim, leather, velvet, silk, and other materials are all commonly used, and the garment may be worn for work, travel, leisure, performances, or special occasions. A jumpsuit is generally distinguishable from a romper mainly by its length: a romper is usually shorter, while a jumpsuit commonly extends to the ankles or wrists. The term is common in both British and American English and can describe both traditionally practical garments and modern fashion designs.
nounA one-piece garment consisting of a top and trousers joined at the waist, typically fastened with a zipper. It may be worn for work, sport, formal occasions, or as casual clothing.
- A one-piece garment with a top and trousers joined at the waist, often secured by a zipper and worn for work, sport, formal occasions, or casual wear.
"She changed into a velvet jumpsuit before the performance."
"The mechanic wore a blue jumpsuit while repairing the engine."
"The singer appeared on stage in a sparkling silver jumpsuit."
The standard plural is “jumpsuits.”
"The shop sells warm jumpsuits for winter walks."
From a practical garment associated with parachuting and workwear to a glamorous evening outfit, the jumpsuit has moved from utility to style.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jumpsuit come from?
“Jumpsuit” is a compound formed from “jump” and “suit” and was used in the early 20th century for garments associated with jumping, parachuting, and similar activities. The word later became a general term for a one-piece garment joining a top and trousers. Its components belong to a wider family of English words connected with the idea of jumping, including “jumper” and “jumping.”
Related word forms
How jumpsuit is actually used
The term is neutral in meaning and can describe practical, sports, casual, evening, or formal clothing. In British English, “romper” may sometimes be preferred for a child's one-piece garment, while “playsuit” often suggests clothing designed for play.
Easily confused with jumpsuit
A jumpsuit is generally a full-length one-piece garment, whereas a romper is usually shorter and ends around the hips or upper thighs.
A playsuit is a lightweight one-piece garment intended mainly for children or informal play, while a jumpsuit can be a practical, fashionable, or formal adult garment.