Formals

Part of speech: noun, adjective

Definitions

1. A type of clothing characterized by elegance and sophistication, typically worn for formal occasions
2. Attire designed to comply with a specific dress code, often associated with events such as weddings or formal dinners
3. Garments that conform to traditional standards of sophistication and decorum, distinguished from casual wear

Etymology: "Formals" is simply the plural of "formal" in its noun sense, used for an evening dress event or the clothing worn to one. Its story runs through the single word "form." Latin "fōrma" meant shape or figure, and from it the adjective "fōrmālis" arose, meaning having to do with shape or outward structure. Old French took this into "formel," and Middle English borrowed that as "formel," which over time settled into the modern spelling. The sense of the English adjective moved from shape toward correctness of outward appearance. A thing that is "formal" conforms to a set pattern of conduct or dress, which is why an occasion with rules about attire gradually became the natural home for the word. The noun plural then names the garments that meet those rules, so "formals" carries the idea of shape and proper outline into the wardrobe.

Synonyms: formalwear, eveningwear, dress clothes, attire, garments

Antonyms: casuals, informals, everyday clothes, sportswear, leisurewear