# go commando

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/go-commando
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To not wear underwear (chiefly underpants) under one's outer clothing

## Examples

- I forgot my underwear, so I am going commando today.
- He realized he had no clean laundry left, so he decided to go commando for the day.
- After the airline lost his luggage containing all his clothes, he had no choice but to go commando under his suit for the important business meeting.

## Origin

Attested since 1974, the term originated as university slang. Explanations regarding its original meaning vary, though the year of its first appearance remains fixed in the record.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.