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

Let each part of the dress harmonize with all the rest; avoid the extreme of fashion, and let the dress suit you.

From Project Gutenberg

The boys' trunks had been packed and sent on ahead, so all they carried with them were their dress-suit cases.

From Project Gutenberg

As there was nothing to do but to wait, the boys checked their dress-suit cases and then started for a stroll through the city.

From Project Gutenberg

Placing his dress-suit case in the house, he walked down to the barn.

From Project Gutenberg

It is possible for an American actor to wear a dress suit with an ease that is rivalled only by the French.

From Project Gutenberg