Outdresses

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To surpass another in style or elegance of attire by wearing clothes that are more fashionable or impressive, thereby attracting greater attention or admiration
2. To outshine someone through superior clothing choices, displaying garments that are more refined, striking, or appropriate for an occasion than those worn by others
3. To demonstrate greater sartorial elegance by selecting and wearing outfits that eclipse the attire of others in terms of taste, trendiness, or overall appearance

Etymology: "Outdresses" is simply the third-person singular form of "outdress," a verb built from the English prefix "out-" (meaning "surpass" or "exceed") and the verb "dress." "Out-" compounds like this were a productive pattern in English from the Middle Ages onward, letting speakers say one thing surpassed another in a given activity, as with "outrun," "outsell," or "outlast." "Outdress" is a much later formation. Its verb sense of surpassing someone in dress is recorded in English writing from the 1800s, and it has remained a rare, mostly descriptive word used in fashion writing, gossip columns, and commentary on social events. Because "dress" itself has long meant both the act of putting on clothes and the garment worn, the verb can apply to either the wearer's attire or the overall impression created.

Synonyms: outfits, dresses better than