petticoat

[ pet-ee-koht ]

noun

1. Also called pettiskirt. an underskirt, especially one that is full and often trimmed and ruffled and of a decorative fabric.
2. any skirtlike part or covering.
3. a flounce or valance fitting around the sides of a bed, couch, or chair, as to conceal the legs.
4. Informal: Sometimes Offensive. a woman or girl (usually used facetiously).

adjective

1. Informal: Sometimes Offensive. of, relating to, or controlled by women; female; feminine:

   petticoat government.

petticoat

/ ˈpɛtɪˌkəʊt /

noun

1. a woman's light undergarment in the form of an underskirt or including a bodice supported by shoulder straps
2. informal.
   1. a humorous or mildly disparaging name for a woman
   2. ( as modifier )

      petticoat politics

Sensitive Note

In reference to a female, this term is usually used for humorous effect, but is sometimes perceived as insulting or demeaning to women.

Other Words From

• petti·coatless adjective
• under·petti·coat noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of petticoat¹

First recorded in 1375–1425, petticoat is from the late Middle English word petycote. See petty, coat

Word History and Origins

Origin of petticoat¹

C15: see petty , coat

Example Sentences

She was shortly down to her petticoats and pearls, and heading our way.

From Literature

Their bodies were their canvases, which they bedecked in feather boas, tutus, corsets, Victorian petticoats, Edwardian frock coats, wigs, wings, headdresses, ribbons, sequins, rhinestones, satin, face paint and an abundance of glitter.

From New York Times

Still so unlike the stiff petticoats most Marvellian women chose to wear.

From Literature

A sleepover includes a fashion show where the “overburdened pre-teens wear four layers of petticoats and pantaloons.”

From Los Angeles Times

Nova Twins, up for best group, wore stunning dresses framed by hoop petticoats and adorned with safety pins and tartan, adding a splash of colour to the red carpet.

From BBC