dressy

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

Synonyms of dressy

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Examples of dressy in a Sentence

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.
Style it with a maxi skirt and booties for dressier occasions, or keep things low-key with jeans and sneakers. — Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 21 Aug. 2026 This take on the backless loafer adds a little texture to the trend, with soft ruching across the upper, giving the shoe a slightly dressier look. — Sarah Scott, Southern Living, 20 Aug. 2026 This under-$20 pair can be as casual as a beach coverup or as dressy as a dinner date requires—with the help of a strappy tank and kitten heels, of course. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 19 Aug. 2026 The instant outfit is so easy to throw on and looks much dressier than a pair of sweats and a hoodie for the airport. — Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dressy

Word History

First Known Use

1737, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dressy was in 1737

Rhymes for dressy

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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 26 Aug. 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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