Search Dictionary
Definition of brassiere

brassiere

/brəˈzɪər/
bras · siere
Plural:brassieres
JUMP TO:

brassiere Lexical Profile

brassiere Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A woman's close-fitting undergarment designed to support, shape, and cover the breasts.

Example

"During the 1920s, the design of the brassiere evolved significantly to accommodate changing silhouettes in women's fashion."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for brassiere

Word Nuance & Usage

Although 'brassiere' is the formal and historical term for the undergarment, it has been largely superseded in everyday conversational and commercial English by its abbreviation, 'bra'.

• Rhymes for brassiere

• Nearby Words

branzino
brasilia
brassica
brassiere
bratislava
bratwurst
brazil

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed into English in the early 20th century from the French 'brassière' (originally a child's undershirt or bodice), which derives from Old French 'braciere' (arm guard), from 'bras' meaning 'arm'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Brassiere. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/brassiere
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.