cardigan

noun

car·​di·​gan ˈkär-di-gən How to pronounce cardigan (audio)
: a usually collarless sweater or jacket that opens the full length of the center front

Examples of cardigan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Finish the look off with a basic tee or tank top with an outer layer—like an oversized shirt, a cardigan, or vest. —René Chávez Esparza, Glamour, 20 May 2026 Wales Bonner Sambas, and the top is a cute Free People cardigan that resembles vintage thermal underwear. —Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 20 May 2026 Attach either side to the collar of a cardigan or light jacket to keep it casually draped over the shoulders for a chic cape effect. —Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 18 May 2026 The guys mostly sport collared shirts buttoned up tight; Drew might be wearing a cardigan. —Dan Kois, Pitchfork, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for cardigan

Word History

Etymology

James Thomas Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan †1868 English soldier

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cardigan was in 1856

Browse Nearby Words

cardiform
cardigan
Cardigan
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cardigan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cardigan. Accessed 22 May. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cardigan

noun
car·​di·​gan ˈkärd-i-gən How to pronounce cardigan (audio)
: a usually collarless sweater opening down the front

Geographical Definition

Cardigan

geographical name

Car·​di·​gan ˈkär-di-gən How to pronounce Cardigan (audio)
variants or Cardiganshire
ˈkär-di-gən-ˌshir How to pronounce Cardigan (audio)
-shər
former county of western Wales; capital Aberystwyth

More from Merriam-Webster on cardigan

Nglish: Translation of cardigan for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cardigan

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