Chemises (en. Shirts)

/ʃə.miz/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A piece of clothing made from fabric that covers the torso and fastens at the front.
He is wearing a white shirt for the interview.
Il porte une chemise blanche pour l'entretien.
A top usually with sleeves and a collar, often made of cotton or linen.
She bought several shirts for the summer.
Elle a acheté plusieurs chemises pour l'été.
A formal piece of clothing worn underneath a suit.
He needs a new shirt for his wedding.
Il a besoin d'une nouvelle chemise pour son mariage.

Etymology

From Latin 'camina', which designates a body garment.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to put on a shirt
To dress carefully for a formal occasion.
mettre une chemise
to be in a shirt
To be casual or lightly dressed.
être en chemise
to change shirts
To modify one's opinion or attitude according to circumstances.
changer de chemise

Related Words

blouse
A similar garment but often lighter and more comfortable, usually worn by women.
blouse
t-shirt
A simple and casual top, without a collar and generally with short sleeves.
t-shirt
suit
A set of formal clothing including a jacket and pants, typically worn with a shirt.
costume

Slang Meanings

A half-buttoned shirt.
He arrived at the party in a half-buttoned shirt, it was very casual.
Il est arrivé à la fête en chemise à moitié boutonnée, c'était très décontracté.
A messy shirt.
Hanging out in a wrinkled shirt, he looked like he hadn't prepared.
Suspendu avec une chemise froissée, il avait l'air de ne pas s'être préparé.