What does nightwear mean?
Nightwear means clothing associated with nighttime, especially sleepwear such as pajamas, nightgowns, and other comfortable garments worn in bed. The word is broad rather than technical: it can refer to one item of clothing, a complete outfit, or the general category of garments worn for sleep and nighttime relaxation. In everyday use, it is more specific than the everyday act of going to bed but less precise than terms for an individual garment such as pajamas or a nightgown. Nightwear is common in both British and American English, although British speakers may emphasize clothing worn in bed, while American usage can include relaxed evening or lounge clothing. Retail and fashion contexts often use it to describe coordinated sleepwear sets or collections. The compound also conveys comfort, informality, and a clear association with the transition from daily activity to rest.
nounClothing worn for sleeping or relaxing at night, especially pajamas, nightgowns, or similar garments. It may also refer to a set of such clothing.
- Clothing worn for sleeping or relaxing at night, especially pajamas, nightgowns, and other garments associated with going to bed.
"She changed into comfortable nightwear before going to bed."
"The store sells lightweight nightwear made from breathable cotton."
"He appeared on the morning news wearing more formal clothes than his usual nightwear."
Usually an uncountable noun when referring to the general category or material; the plural 'nightwears' is uncommon and may be used in commercial or fashion contexts to refer to separate garments or styles.
"The designer presented several distinctive nightwears for the collection."
Nightwear is one of those everyday words that quietly follows the sun: it describes the clothes we change into when the day gives way to bedtime.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nightwear come from?
Nightwear is a compound of the English words 'night' and 'wear,' both of which are of Germanic origin. The word developed in the modern English period and became established especially in the language of clothing and household goods. Its meaning follows the ordinary sense of the compound: clothing intended for wear at night.
How nightwear is actually used
Nightwear is a general, usually neutral term. In British English, it is often used for clothing worn in bed, while in American English it can also include loungewear worn around the home in the evening. It is normally treated as an uncountable noun when referring to the category of clothing, though a retailer may use the plural 'nightwear' for separate garments or sets.
Easily confused with nightwear
Nightwear is clothing generally associated with nighttime or sleeping, while sleepwear is a broader term for garments designed specifically for sleep.