Definition

A type of close-fitting shirt with long sleeves, often worn as an undergarment, or a woman who works as a domestic servant doing basic tasks.

Example

She wore a skivvy under her dress to keep warm.

Conversation

I found this really comfy skivvy at the thrift store yesterday.

Oh nice! I've been looking for something like that for the colder days.

Yeah, it's perfect for layering under a sweater.

I should check it out — I love a good skivvy!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'skivvy' originates from the British slang term 'skivvy', which refers to a servant or someone who does menial work. It is derived from the earlier term 'skivvy' meaning a female servant, which is believed to be a diminutive form of 'skiv', a slang term for a woman or girl, possibly influenced by the word 'skivvies' referring to undergarments. The term reflects a social context of servitude and informal labor.

Memory Tip

Think of 'skivvy' as a term for someone doing menial work, like a servant, which helps you remember that it refers to a person in a subordinate role.

Visually Confused Words