dress down

verb

dressed down; dressing down; dresses down
Synonyms of dress downnext

transitive verb

: to reprove severely

intransitive verb

: to dress casually especially for reasons of fashion

Examples of dress down in a Sentence

dressed down for boorish behavior at the dance
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.
The Scuba Micro Flare Leggings are also made with a high-rise tummy control waistband for extra support and long-lasting comfort, whether dressed down for the airport or up for dinner in a new city. Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 25 Dec. 2025 Around the same time, Oscar de la Renta sent floor-skimming shirt dresses down the runway, while Stephen Burrows gave sequins a sporty edge in wrap-styles blouses and dresses – perfect for transitioning from work to cocktail parties in the era. Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 19 Dec. 2025 While Haim dressed down her look with a low-key ponytail and barely-there makeup, Swift stuck to her usual glam with cat-eye liner and signature red lip. Kathleen Walsh, Glamour, 10 Dec. 2025 The shoe comes in two colors, each of which look great dressed up or dressed down, and will only get better with each wear. Will Porter, Outside, 9 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dress down

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of dress down was in 1843

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dress down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dress%20down. Accessed 31 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

dress down

verb
1
: to criticize severely
2
: to dress casually
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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