bra
B1Informal, Everyday. Formal register uses 'brassiere'.
Definition
Meaning
A woman's undergarment worn to support the breasts.
A supportive structure or device, often used metaphorically (e.g., for engineering). The term is also an abbreviation for 'brassiere'.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a noun. The full form 'brassiere' is now rare in everyday speech. Considered a neutral, functional term, though some feminist discourse critiques it as a symbol of societal expectations.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major lexical differences. Both use 'bra' as the standard term. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Equally neutral/connotative in both dialects. The term 'bralette' (lightweight, often unlined bra) is common in both.
Frequency
Equally high frequency in both dialects. 'Brassiere' is archaic/formal in both.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
wear a [ADJECTIVE] brabuy a new brahave/get a bra fittingfasten/unfasten a braVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As comfortable as an old bra (familiar, well-worn).”
- “The bra-burning feminist (historical cliché, not accurate).”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in retail, fashion, and manufacturing contexts (e.g., 'bra sales figures', 'innovative bra design').
Academic
Rare, except in gender studies, sociology, or history of fashion.
Everyday
Very common in conversations about clothing, shopping, and personal comfort.
Technical
Used in fashion design, textile engineering, and medical contexts (e.g., post-surgical bras).
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- 'To bra' is not a standard verb.
American English
- 'To bra' is not a standard verb.
adverb
British English
- No standard adverb form.
American English
- No standard adverb form.
adjective
British English
- 'Bra-less' is the adjectival form, as in 'a bra-less look'.
- 'Bra-top' (a top with built-in support).
American English
- 'Braless' is the adjectival form, as in 'going braless'.
- 'Bra top' (a top with built-in support).
Examples
By CEFR Level
- She bought a new bra.
- This bra is very comfortable.
- I need to get a sports bra for the gym.
- Do you know where I can find the bra section?
- Finding a well-fitting strapless bra can be surprisingly difficult.
- The design of modern bras has evolved significantly from early corsetry.
- The discourse surrounding the bra as a symbol of oppression versus empowerment remains complex.
- Advanced polymer fabrics have revolutionized the functionality of athletic bras.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: BRA = Breasts Require Assistance. (A functional mnemonic, not etymological.)
Conceptual Metaphor
SUPPORT IS A CONTAINER / SHAPE-GIVER (e.g., 'a bra holds you in', 'it gives you shape').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation from 'бюстгальтер' in overly formal contexts; 'bra' is the everyday word.
- Do not confuse with the Russian 'бра' (short for 'брат' - brother).
Common Mistakes
- Using 'bra' as a verb incorrectly (e.g., 'She braed herself'). Not standard.
- Misspelling as 'bar' or 'brah'.
- Using 'brassiere' in casual conversation sounds dated or overly formal.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the full word 'brassiere' be LEAST likely used today?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a standard, neutral term for a common item of clothing. It is not considered vulgar.
A bralette is a specific type of bra, often made of soft fabric without underwire or structured padding, designed for light support or as a fashion item.
Yes, though uncommon. Some men with gynecomastia may wear supportive garments similar to bras for comfort.
'Brassiere' is the original, formal French-derived word meaning 'bodice' or 'child's undershirt'. It was shortened to 'bra' in the early 20th century as the garment became popularized.
Explore