■ verb
1》 put on one's clothes.
↘put clothes on (someone).
↘wear clothes in a particular way or of a particular type: she ~es well.
↘put on clothes appropriate for a formal occasion.
↘( ~ up ) ~ in smart clothes or in a special costume.
↘( ~ down ) ~ informally.
↘( ~ someone down ) informal reprimand someone.
2》 decorate or arrange in an attractive way.
3》 treat or prepare in a particular way.
↘clean, treat, or cover (a wound).
↘treat the surface of (leather or fabric) during manufacture.
↘smooth the surface of (stone).
↘apply fertilizer to.
4》 clean and prepare (food) for cooking or eating.
↘add a ~ing to (a salad).
5》 Military draw up (troops) in the proper alignment.
6》 make (an artificial fishing fly).
■ noun
1》 a one-piece garment for a woman or girl that covers the body and extends down over the legs.
2》 clothing of a specified kind: he was in the formal ~ of the Council.
↘[as modifier ] denoting ceremonial clothing or uniform: a ~ suit.
Phrases
~ed overall Nautical decorated with a continuous line of flags from bow to stern.
~ed to kill informal wearing glamorous clothes intended to create a striking impression.
Origin
ME: from OFr. ~er 'arrange, prepare', based on L. directus 'direct, straight'.