shapewear

noun

shape·​wear ˈshāp-ˌwer How to pronounce shapewear (audio)
: tight-fitting undergarments designed to shape and smooth the body
shapewear may be just the thing to wear under a clingy evening dress.Sylvia Rubin
Shapewear … isn't about shrinking your waist to the size of your wrist, or getting your booty back to its prepubescent years; it's about making your clothes look and fit better.Cloe Cabrera
In growing numbers, men are easing into a variety of shapewear, including elasticized tank tops …Jean Patteson

Examples of shapewear 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.
The company began as a shapewear brand offering a wide range of sizes, from XXS to 5XL, reflecting a commitment to body positivity. Lisa Gutierrez may 2, Kansas City Star, 2 May 2026 Back in 2014, Spanx translated its shapewear technology into a new category, introducing denim with fit solutions. Sarah Jones, Footwear News, 29 Apr. 2026 The intimate apparel brand also makes wireless bras, shapewear, swimsuits, and pajamas, all designed with the same focus on function and ease. Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 15 Apr. 2026 And both backgrounds have been critical to building structures that helped Skims and Good American grow in the areas of shapewear and inclusivity. Krysta Escobar, CNBC, 14 Apr. 2026 Focusing on everyday shapewear, Yummie hugs instead of squeezes like traditional shapewear that can be extremely tight and constrictive. ABC News, 11 Apr. 2026 All wardrobes can benefit from the right shapewear. Jason Phillips, USA Today, 17 Mar. 2026 Available in petite, regular, and tall lengths, the bottoms feature a shapewear-level compression waistband for a flattering and comfortable look. Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 12 Mar. 2026 And since the material itself is buttery-soft and breathable, these panties feel more like luxe leggings than traditional shapewear. Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 9 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

shape entry 1 + -wear (as in sportswear, underwear)

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shapewear was in 1962

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shapewear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shapewear. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster