English Reference
noun · verb

outfit

n. · v.
US /ˈaʊtˌfɪt/ UK /ˈaʊtfɪt/ out·fit UK spelling outfit's, outfit's, outfitted

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.a set of clothes that you wear together, often for a special event.

    n.a coordinated set of garments and accessories worn together.

    Simple

    She bought a new outfit for her best friend's wedding next month.

    In context

    The designer showcased a striking autumn outfit consisting of a woollen overcoat paired with matching silk trousers and leather boots.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    n.a group of people who work together, like a small company or a sports team.

    n.a collective group of people associated for a common purpose, such as a business, military unit, or athletic team.

    Simple

    He works for a small software outfit that develops mobile games.

    In context

    Despite being a relatively small outfit, the consultancy managed to secure several high-profile contracts against much larger international competitors.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical

    n.a complete set of tools or equipment needed for a specific job or activity.

    n.a full set of equipment or apparatus required for a particular task or expedition.

    Simple

    The explorer packed a specialized survival outfit for the mountain climb.

    In context

    The laboratory was supplied with a complete testing outfit, ensuring the technicians had every instrument necessary for the chemical analysis.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to provide someone or something with all the equipment they need.

    v.to supply or equip a person or organisation with necessary items for a specific purpose.

    Simple

    The school will outfit the entire football team with new uniforms this year.

    In context

    The expedition was carefully outfitted with state-of-the-art satellite communication gear to ensure the team remained in contact with the base camp.

    Usage

    This is a transitive verb that often takes a direct object followed by 'with'.

Dressed in a bright yellow two-piece polyester outfit, she sits quietly in her home.

Al Jazeera· 14 Aug 2026

The difference, she says, is whether they look like part of a considered outfit or something that would normally be worn around a swimming pool.

BBC News· 6 Aug 2026

Variant of earlier out-fit, from fit out. Equivalent to out- + fit.

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

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated