Negligee is a French loanword that describes a type of women's undergarment. The word is typically pronounced /ˌneɡlɪˈʒeɪ/ (NEGG-lee-JAY), with the first syllable sounding like "neg" as in "negative." The spelling may be confusing, as the word contains two silent letters (the second "e" and the "g") that are holdovers from the original French spelling. As with many loanwords, the spelling and pronunciation vary depending on the speaker's native language and dialect.
Negligee is a noun that refers to a lightweight, loose-fitting garment, typically a nightgown or robe, worn by women for sleepwear or lounging purposes. It is derived from the French word "négligé" which means "careless" or "neglected".
Traditionally, a negligee was made of delicate fabric such as silk, satin, or chiffon, and was often lavishly decorated with lace, ribbons, or sheer elements. It usually had thin shoulder straps and a flowing shape that draped loosely around the body. The purpose of a negligee was not only to provide comfort while sleeping but also to enhance a woman's allure and femininity.
Over time, the design of negligees has evolved, and they are now available in various lengths, styles, and fabric choices to suit different preferences and occasions. While some modern negligees maintain the delicate and sensual aesthetic of the original garment, others feature more practical and modest designs, such as long-sleeved versions or those that resemble a casual dress.
In addition to its use as sleepwear, a negligee can also be worn to lounge around the house, as it is usually comfortable and offers freedom of movement. Whether classic or contemporary, negligees continue to be a popular choice for women seeking a blend of elegance, comfort, and sensuality in their sleepwear or leisure attire.
A loose gown; an undress; an easy unceremonious attire.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word negligee originated from the French term négligé, which means careless or neglected. The term was first used in the 18th century to describe a loose and informal clothing style worn by women at home. From French, the word was borrowed into English, where it came to refer specifically to a loose, lightweight dressing gown or nightgown. Over time, the spelling was anglicized and became negligee.