English Reference
noun · verb

blouse

n. · v.
US /ˈbɫaʊs/ UK /blˈaʊz/ blouse UK spelling blouse's, blouse's, blousing

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    n.a shirt for women or girls, usually made of light fabric and often having buttons or a collar.

    n.a woman's upper garment, typically made of lightweight fabric and often featuring a collar and buttons.

    Simple

    She wore a white silk blouse with her navy blue suit for the interview.

    In context

    The designer's spring collection featured several high-collared blouses made from breathable linen and adorned with intricate lace detailing.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical

    n.a loose-fitting jacket that is part of a military or police uniform.

    n.a loose-fitting uniform jacket, particularly one worn by members of the armed forces or emergency services.

    Simple

    The soldier ironed his uniform blouse before the morning inspection.

    In context

    The service dress blouse was tailored to allow for a full range of motion while maintaining a crisp, professional appearance during ceremonies.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Dialect

    n.a short, tight-fitting top worn under a sari.

    n.a short-sleeved, midriff-baring garment worn as an undergarment for a sari.

    Simple

    She chose a gold blouse to match the embroidery on her wedding sari.

    In context

    Traditional sari draping requires a well-fitted blouse to provide the necessary structure for the heavy silk fabric of the pallu.

    Usage

    Commonly used in South Asian English contexts.

    choli
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Technical

    v.to make a piece of clothing hang in loose folds.

    v.to cause a garment to hang in loose, drooping folds, often by tucking it in loosely.

    Simple

    He pulled his shirt out slightly to blouse it over his belt.

    In context

    The stylist instructed the model to blouse the oversized sweater to create a more relaxed, voluminous silhouette for the photoshoot.

    drapepuff
  5. 05 C2 Proficiency TechnicalDialect Sport

    v.to tuck the bottom of your trousers into your boots.

    v.to secure the cuffs of trousers inside the tops of boots, typically using elastic bands or ties.

    Simple

    The hikers bloused their trousers to keep ticks and dirt out of their socks.

    In context

    Regulations required all recruits to blouse their combat trousers neatly above their boots to ensure a uniform appearance across the platoon.

    Usage

    Frequently used in military or hiking contexts.


1828, from French blouse (“a workman's or peasant's smock”), see that for more. More at blee, fold.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin French blouse
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated