dressy

1 of 2

adjective

ˈdre-sē How to pronounce dressy (audio)
dressier; dressiest
Synonyms of dressynext
1
: showy in dress
2
: stylish, smart
dressy clothes
3
: requiring or characterized by fancy or formal dress
a dressy affair
dressiness noun

dressiness

2 of 2

noun

dress·​i·​ness
ˈdresēnə̇s, 
-sin-
plural -es
: the quality or state of being dressy

Synonyms of dressy

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Adjective

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Examples of dressy in a Sentence

Adjective Those shoes are so dressy, I rarely wear them. She wore an outfit that was much too dressy for the occasion.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
They’re made of lightweight twill with a dressy pleated front and wide waistband with elastic in the back for more comfort. — Shea Simmons, PEOPLE, 5 Sep. 2026 It’s made of quick-drying, moisture-wicking, anti-odor, and UV SPF 40 protection fabric, but still has a dressy look. — Kaitlin Marks, Travel + Leisure, 2 Sep. 2026 While today’s cruise ships are generally relaxed, Schumann notes that certain venues onboard still have dress expectations, particularly specialty restaurants and dressy evenings. — Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 29 Aug. 2026 The consumer is looking for understated luxury that bridges the gap between casual and dressy. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dressy

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1737, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dressy was in 1737

Rhymes for dressy

See All Rhymes for dressy

Browse Nearby Words

dress up
dressy
drew
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Cite this Entry

“Dressy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dressy. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dressy

adjective
ˈdres-ē How to pronounce dressy (audio)
dressier; dressiest
1
: showy in dress
2
: suitable for formal occasions
dressy clothes
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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