Definition

The lower edge of a piece of clothing like a skirt, dress, or coat.

Example

She decided to shorten the hemline of her dress for the party.

Conversation

I love the new dress you bought; the hemline is so stylish.

Thanks! I was worried it might be too short for me.

Not at all, it looks perfect!

I appreciate that! I think the hemline really makes it stand out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hemline → The word is formed from "hem" (from Old English *hem*, meaning the edge or border of a garment) and "line" (from Latin *linea*, meaning a line or thread). The term "hemline" refers to the line formed by the edge of a garment, particularly the bottom edge of a skirt or dress.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'edge' ('hem') of a garment and how it creates a 'line' — that's what a hemline is.

Visually Confused Words