leotard

This page is about the eponym leotard

Meaning

a form-fitting, one-piece garment that covers the torso. It may or may not have sleeves, and is often worn by acrobats, dancers and skaters

For example

  • The ballet dancers are wearing pink leotards.

  • The acrobat was told to bring an extra leotard just in case.

Origin: Jules Léotard (1838-1870) was a French acrobat who specialised in trapeze. He invented a one-piece, tight-fitting costume to wear for his acts. This unisex dancewear now bears his name.

Quick Quiz

Which part of the body is not covered when you wear a leotard?

a. fingertips

b. back

c. stomach
a) fingertips b) back c) stomach

Contributor: Tara Benwell