armhole: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral (common in fashion, sewing, and everyday clothing descriptions)
Quick answer
What does “armhole” mean?
The opening in a garment through which the arm is inserted.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The opening in a garment through which the arm is inserted.
The cut-out part of a piece of clothing (such as a shirt, jacket, or dress) that surrounds the shoulder and allows the arm to pass through, where the sleeve is usually attached. In sewing and pattern-making, it refers specifically to the shape and dimensions of this opening.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core meaning or usage. Both varieties use the term identically in fashion and sewing contexts.
Connotations
Neutral in both varieties. Purely descriptive.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties when discussing clothing.
Grammar
How to Use “armhole” in a Sentence
The [garment] has a [adjective] armhole.She adjusted the armhole of the [garment].The [adjective] armhole [verb, e.g., chafed, gaped].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “armhole” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The tailor will need to armhole the bodice properly.
- She carefully armholed the dress to improve mobility.
American English
- The pattern needs to be armholed before cutting the fabric.
- He armholed the jersey for a better fit.
adjective
British English
- The armhole seam was fraying.
- We need an armhole measurement.
American English
- Check the armhole depth on the spec sheet.
- The armhole facing is too narrow.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the fashion retail and manufacturing industry when discussing garment specifications, fit, and patterns.
Academic
Used in textile, design, and fashion studies when describing garment construction and pattern drafting.
Everyday
Used when discussing the fit of a piece of clothing, e.g., 'This shirt's armholes are too tight.'
Technical
Central term in sewing, tailoring, and pattern-making, with precise measurements and types (e.g., set-in, raglan).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “armhole”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “armhole”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “armhole”
- Confusing 'armhole' with 'armpit' (the part of the body under the shoulder).
- Using 'armhole' to refer to the entire sleeve.
- Misspelling as 'arm hold'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The 'armhole' is the opening in the clothing. The 'armpit' is the area under your arm where it joins your body.
Rarely. In very technical sewing contexts, it might be used to mean 'to cut or shape the armhole', but it is not standard. The noun form is by far the most common.
'Scye' is a professional tailoring term synonymous with 'armhole', specifically referring to the armhole curve in a pattern. It is more technical than 'armhole'.
A well-fitted armhole allows for comfortable arm movement and prevents the garment from riding up or gaping. It is crucial for the overall drape and comfort of a top, jacket, or dress.
The opening in a garment through which the arm is inserted.
Armhole is usually neutral (common in fashion, sewing, and everyday clothing descriptions) in register.
Armhole: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɑːm.həʊl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɑːrm.hoʊl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a HOLE for your ARM. It's literally an 'arm-hole'.
Conceptual Metaphor
GARMENTS ARE CONTAINERS (with openings for body parts).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'armhole'?