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undress
/ʌnˈdrɛs/
remove clothing
She undressed and stepped into the shower.
She removed her clothes and entered the shower.
neutral
to remove clothes or garments from someone or oneself
He undressed quickly and got into bed.
He removed his clothes rapidly and lay down.
The nurse undressed the patient for the examination.
The nurse removed the patient's clothing for the medical check.
Can be used literally or figuratively (e.g., 'undressing one's emotions' in psychological contexts).
figurative
to reveal or expose something hidden or secret
The documentary undresses the corruption in the industry.
The documentary exposes the corruption within the industry.
Common in media and journalism to describe revealing hidden truths.
Collocations
undress oneselfto remove one's own clothingundress completelyto remove all clothingundress for bedto prepare for sleep by removing clothes
Synonyms
Pro Tip
Avoid ambiguity in figurative use
When using 'undress' metaphorically (e.g., 'undress one's soul'), clarify the context to avoid unintended literal interpretations.
Gold Rule
Literal vs. figurative meaning
Distinguish between physical removal of clothing (literal) and revealing hidden truths (figurative).
Word Origin
From Middle English *undressen*, from Old French *desvestir* (modern *déshabiller*), from Latin *dis-* (prefix meaning 'apart, away') + *vestire* ('to clothe'). The literal sense 'remove clothing' dates to the 16th century, while figurative uses emerged later.
Usage Notes
In formal contexts, 'disrobe' may be preferred. 'Undress' is neutral but can imply a more deliberate or complete action. Figurative use is common in media and literature.
Word Breakdown
un-
prefix meaning 'reverse action' or 'remove'
prefixdress
clothing or attire
rootEnglish Dictionary