What does nightgown mean?
A nightgown is a loose garment worn for sleeping or relaxing at night. It is commonly made from lightweight, breathable fabric such as cotton, although warmer materials such as flannel are also used. Nightgowns traditionally have been marketed primarily as women’s sleepwear and are often looser and less elaborate than a formal dress. The term is standard in British and American English, while “nightie” is a familiar, informal alternative, especially in Britain. In everyday use, a nightgown is associated with comfort, privacy, and getting ready for bed, although it can also function as casual loungewear at home. It should not be confused with pajamas, which may consist of a separate top and bottom, or with a nightdress, whose name suggests a garment shaped more like a dress.
nounA loose, comfortable garment worn for sleeping or relaxing at night, traditionally worn by women or girls. It may have short or long sleeves and can be worn alone or with other sleepwear.
- A loose garment worn in bed or for sleeping at night.
"She put on a warm cotton nightgown before getting into bed."
"She was reading a novel in her nightgown by the bedside lamp."
"The shop sells warm flannel nightgowns for cold winter nights."
The regular plural is “nightgowns.”
"The shop sells nightgowns in several sizes and colours."
The word “nightgown” is a picture in two pieces: “night” tells you when it is worn, while “gown” tells you what kind of garment it is.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nightgown come from?
“Nightgown” is a compound formed in English from “night” and “gown.” The word is associated with the early nineteenth century, when sleepwear made specifically for bed became more common. “Gown” itself comes through Old French from a Latin word meaning clothing or dress, and ultimately relates to forms in several other European languages.
Related word forms
How nightgown is actually used
Nightgown is standard in both British and American English. The word often implies a traditional, feminine sleep garment, whereas sleepwear and pajamas are broader and more neutral terms. “Nightie” is informal and commonly used in British English.
Easily confused with nightgown
A nightgown is generally a loose sleeping garment, while a nightdress is a dress designed or styled for sleep and may fit more closely.
Nightie is an informal, usually shortened term for a nightgown or similar sleep garment.