dress suit

[ dres soot ]

noun

1. a formal or semiformal ensemble, typically for a man, with matching jacket and trousers, usually worn with a dress shirt and necktie, sometimes including a vest.
2. a woman’s ensemble for semiformal or professional wear, comprising a jacket or blazer paired with a matching dress or skirt.

dress suit

noun

1. an ensemble of matching formal evening wear

Word History and Origins

Origin of dress suit¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

Known for his stylish dress suits for years, Wright enjoyed not having to wear them in the relaxed atmosphere in the pandemic, and instead wore three-quarter zips and sweatpants.

From New York Times

“She had dress suits and skirt suits and things like that, and that was their uniform every day,” Temkin said.

From Seattle Times

In perhaps the clearest sign of respect to the championship series, many reporters traded in their polo shirts, long the preferred bubble uniform, for dress suits.

From Washington Post

So the next day I put on my battle uniform: a red dress suit that my mom had bought me.

From New York Times

It is customary that during parliamentary proceedings, men wear a jacket and tie, and women a dress suit.

From BBC