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Where does the word "lingerie" come from? It comes from French linge, passing through French before entering English (1800s).
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Where does the word "lingerie" come from? It comes from French linge, passing through French before entering English (1800s).
Lingerie’s story begins in French: linge meant “linen.” Within French, it grew into lingerie by 1800s. Came to mean linen garments, especially women's undergarments. It reached English by 1800s as lingerie. From French 'linge', linen, since undergarments were made of linen. Today, lingerie means women's underwear and nightclothes.
- Stage 1 · French · medieval linge "linen", meaning "linen".
- Stage 2 · French · 1800s lingerie "women's underclothing", came to mean linen garments, especially women's undergarments.
- Stage 3 · English · 1800s lingerie "women's underwear and nightclothes", from French 'linge', linen, since undergarments were made of linen.