leotard

[ lee-uh-tahrd ]

noun

1. a skintight, one-piece garment for the torso, having a high or low neck, long or short sleeves, and a lower portion resembling either briefs or tights, worn by acrobats, dancers, etc.

leotard

/ ˈlɪəˌtɑːd /

noun

1. a tight-fitting garment covering the body from the shoulders down to the thighs and worn by acrobats, ballet dancers, etc
2. plural another name for tights

Word History and Origins

Origin of leotard¹

1915–20; named after Jules Léotard, 19th-century French aerialist

Word History and Origins

Origin of leotard¹

C19: named after Jules Léotard, French acrobat

Example Sentences

Most notably, she performed Ailey’s 1971 solo “Cry,” where she famously folded, extended and suspended herself in a white long-sleeved leotard and a matching long ruffled skirt.

From Los Angeles Times

Ruble, in a black velvet and mesh leotard, was laser focused as she reléved onto the balls of her feet before gently rolling back down to first position.

From Los Angeles Times

It was in 1972 that Bowie first adopted his most famous alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, complete with flared jumpsuits and sparkling leotards.

From BBC

They seem to be mid-conversation, one fixing their hair in a frilly leotard.

From Los Angeles Times

Posey, who uses the stage name Mona Liza Million, performed three times at the Pride in the Park celebration wearing a long-sleeve leotard, black shorts and tights, with a shiny metallic boa around his waist.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• hosiery
• pantyhose