English Reference

Word

swimwear

US/ˈswɪmˌwɛɹ/

UK/swˈɪmweə/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. clothing that you wear for swimming, like a swimsuit or swimming trunks.

n. clothing designed specifically for swimming or other water-based activities.

Examples

“Don't forget to pack your swimwear for the beach.”

“The hotel shop sells a variety of swimwear for guests who forgot to bring their own.”

“Advances in textile technology have led to the development of professional swimwear that reduces drag and improves the performance of competitive athletes.”

Examples

simple

“Don't forget to pack your swimwear for the beach.”

contextual

“The hotel shop sells a variety of swimwear for guests who forgot to bring their own.”

complex

“Advances in textile technology have led to the development of professional swimwear that reduces drag and improves the performance of competitive athletes.”

Usage

Uncountable; refers to the category of clothing rather than individual items.

Pitfall

I bought two swimwear

I bought two pieces of swimwear

Swimwear is uncountable; use 'pieces of' or 'items of' to count individual garments.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Occasional
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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English Reference