see-through

American  

[see-throo] / ˈsiˌθru /

adjective

1. Also see-thru transparent.

   a see-through blouse.

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noun

1. a degree of or variation in transparency.

2. a see-through item of clothing.

3. look-through.

see through British  

verb

1. (tr) to help out in time of need or trouble

   I know you're short of money, but I'll see you through

2. (tr, adverb) to remain with until the end or completion

   let's see the job through

3. (intr, preposition) to perceive the true nature of

   I can see through your evasion

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adjective

1. partly or wholly transparent or translucent, esp (of clothes) in a titillating way

   a see-through nightie

see through Idioms  

1. . Understand the true character or nature of someone or something, as in We saw through his superficial charm: he was obviously a liar . [c. 1400]

2. Also, see out . Remain with an undertaking to the end; also, provide steadfast support to. For example, I saw the reorganization through and then I left the company , or We'll see out the year in Florida and then decide if the move is permanent , or We'll see you through medical school but then you're on your own .

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Etymology

Origin of see-through

First recorded in 1940–45; adj., noun use of verb phrase see through

Example Sentences

KeyBanc analyst Ashley Owens wrote in a Thursday noet that some Reddit reviews of a Valentine’s edition line of pants with a “scattered heart” pattern indicate that the fabric becomes see-through when bending and squatting.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 12, 2026

Many wore sundresses, cowboy boots, leopard print and, to comply with tight security, plastic see-through purses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 25, 2025

Even the high-end athleisure label Lululemon has tried to sell see-through yoga pants, blaming quality control for the mishap.

From Slate • Dec. 28, 2024

So it’s like a see-through Perspex mask that we poked the holes in to keep the freckles in the right place every day.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2024

When I draw it, I’m going to make my skin see-through and what you’ll see is that all the animals in the zoo of me have broken out of their cages.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson

Related Words

• gauzy
• sheer
• translucent