What Do You Call Your Swimwear?

What’s in a name? When it comes to swimwear, quite a lot! From the classic “swimsuit” to the more informal “cossie”, the terminology varies widely around the globe. Let’s take a dip into the colourful world of swimwear vocabulary.

The Classic Terms

Swimsuit: The most universally recognized term for swimwear.
Bathing suit: Another common option, particularly popular in North America.
Costume: Often used in British English, especially in a more formal context.

Regional Variations

Togs: An Australian and New Zealand favourite, short for swimming togs.
Cozzie: A more informal Australian term for a swimsuit, often used by women.
Maillot: The French term for a one-piece swimsuit.
Bañador: The Spanish word for swimsuit.

The Slangy Side

Swimwear often lends itself to some playful and colourful slang terms. Here are a few:

Bikini: While technically a type of swimwear, it's also used as a general term, especially in slang.
Knickers: A British slang term for bikini bottoms.
Budgie smugglers: Australian slang for tight-fitting men's swimwear, often referring to Speedos.
Cossie: As mentioned earlier, a casual Australian term for a swimsuit.
Swimmers: A more general Australian term for swimwear.