Cardigan Sweater: Definition, Examples & How to Wear

Meaning 1：open-front sweater (Cardigan Sweater)

Cardigan Sweater 🔊

/ˈkɑːrdɪɡən ˈswetər/

A sweater that opens at the front, usually with buttons, worn to stay warm and look stylish.

Person wearing cozy cardigan sweater in sunny cafe

open-front sweater 🔊

➕

/ˈoʊpən frʌnt ˈswetər/

A knitted garment that opens at the front, typically fastened with buttons or a zipper, worn as an outer layer.

📁 Category：Fashion Trends 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Cardigan from Earl of Cardigan; sweater from 'sweat' + '-er' (garment that induces sweat).

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a 'card' that keeps your heart warm – a cardigan.

📖 Example

In the library, she draped a soft cardigan sweater over her shoulders as the evening grew cooler. 🔊 In the library, she draped a soft cardigan sweater over her shoulders as the evening grew cooler.

🔗 Collocations

wear a cardigan – to put on a cardigan sweater

button up a cardigan – to fasten the buttons of a cardigan

cashmere cardigan – a cardigan made of cashmere wool

🔄 Synonyms

cardigan (n.) – a type of sweater that opens at the front

button-front sweater (n.) – a sweater with buttons down the front

knit jacket (n.) – a knitted garment that resembles a jacket

🚫 Antonyms

pullover sweater (n.) – a sweater that is pulled over the head without an opening

hoodie (n.) – a sweatshirt with a hood, typically without front buttons

📖 Cultural Story

Named after James Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan, who wore a knitted waistcoat. The style became popular in the 19th century and remains a fashion staple.