Definition

To wear clothes that are more stylish or formal than someone else.

Example

She always tries to outdress her friends at parties.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how she managed to outdress everyone at the party?

I know, right? I felt so underdressed next to her!

I need to step up my game if I want to keep up.

For sure! Let's plan a shopping trip soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Outdress → It is formed from "out-" (meaning outside or beyond) and "dress" (from Old French *drecier*, meaning to arrange or put in order). The word "outdress" means to dress in a way that is more elaborate or stylish than someone else, essentially dressing beyond or outside the norm.

Memory Tip

Think of dressing 'beyond' ('out-') what is usual or expected — that's why outdress means to dress more elaborately than others.

Visually Confused Words