Outdressed

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To be dressed more elaborately or fashionably than someone else
2. To surpass another in attire, showcasing superior style or elegance
3. To don clothing that is more impressive or better tailored than that of another individual

Etymology: The verb "outdress" is a simple formation: the prefix "out-", meaning to surpass or exceed, attached to "dress," so that to outdress someone is to exceed them in the elaborateness or fashion of your clothes. The prefix "out-" has been used this way since Old English, as in "outrun" or "outlive," and it is still productive in English, allowing speakers to coin verbs of surpassing on the spot. "Outdressed" is simply the past form of this verb, so it describes someone who has been surpassed in dress. The base "dress" comes from Old French "drecier," meaning to arrange or make straight, which is why the sense of setting things in order sits behind the modern meaning of putting on clothes.

Synonyms: better dressed, dressed superiorly, fancier, more elegantly dressed, more stylishly dressed

Antonyms: underdressed, casual, less formally dressed, plainly dressed, less stylish