dressmaking
|dress/mak/ing|
/ˈdrɛsˌmeɪkɪŋ/
making dresses
Etymology
'dressmaking' is an English compound formed from 'dress' + 'making'. 'dress' (noun/verb) in English comes from Old French 'dresser' (to arrange, prepare) and 'making' comes from English 'make' (Old English 'macian').
'dress' entered English via Old French 'dresser' (Middle English 'dressen') meaning 'to arrange, prepare (clothing)'; 'make' comes from Old English 'macian'. The compound 'dressmaking' developed in English to denote the activity of making dresses.
Initially the elements referred to preparing or arranging clothing and the action of making; over time the compound came to specifically denote the craft and trade of making dresses.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the activity, skill, or trade of making dresses; the art of sewing and constructing dresses.
She learned dressmaking from her mother and now makes custom gowns for clients.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
relating to or used in the making of dresses (e.g., tools, techniques, or classes).
She bought a dressmaking magazine for new patterns and techniques.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/30 20:06