bikini

bi-ki-ni · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A two-piece swimsuit for women consisting of a bra top and briefs.

  2. 2.

    Brief underwear for men or women.

Forms

plural: bikinis

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bikini line — The area of skin normally covered by bikini bottoms.
  • •
    bikini wax — Hair removal from the bikini area.

Related words

See also: bathing suit, swimsuit
Synonyms: swimsuit, two-piece

Etymology

Named after Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands, where the United States tested nuclear weapons in 1946. French designer Louis Reard named the swimsuit to suggest its explosive impact on fashion.