full dress

¹

noun

1. the formal attire customarily worn in the evening, usually consisting of black tailcoats and white bow ties for men, and floor-length dresses for women.
2. a ceremonial style of dress.

full-dress

²

[ fool-dres ]

adjective

1. formal and complete in all details:

   a full-dress uniform.

2. done or presented completely or thoroughly.

full dress

noun

1. 1. a formal or ceremonial style of dress, such as white tie and tails for a man and a full-length evening dress for a woman
   2. ( as modifier )

      full-dress uniform

Word History and Origins

Origin of full dress¹

First recorded in 1755–65

Origin of full dress²

First recorded in 1755–65

Example Sentences

The house, like every obvious manifestation of Palmer, is ready for a full-dress inspection.

From The Daily Beast

Some of the guests actually arrive in full dress, including a man wearing a teetering cardboard dino head.

From The Daily Beast

At sea he allows her to wear an easy negligé, but in port she must appear in full dress.

From Project Gutenberg

Such an invitation, addressed either to an intimate friend or mere acquaintance, will signify full dress.

From Project Gutenberg

The Prince and Princess appeared in full dress in the king's box, which is in the centre of the house.

From Project Gutenberg

The Opera—Here you should wear full dress, an opera cloak, and either a head-dress, or dressy bonnet of some thin material.

From Project Gutenberg

At an evening reception let the bride wear full dress, but not her wedding-dress.

From Project Gutenberg