Pajamas: Meaning, Pronunciation, and Usage

Meaning 1：sleepwear (Pajamas)

Pajamas 🔊

/pəˈdʒɑːməz/

Clothes worn for sleeping, usually loose and comfortable, helping you relax at night.

sleepwear 🔊

➕

/ˈsliːpˌwɛr/

Loose-fitting clothing worn for sleeping, typically consisting of a top and pants.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：Primary

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Persian 'pāy' (leg) + 'jāmeh' (garment), meaning leg garment.

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'Pa' as 'Pajamas' and 'Jamas' as 'Jammies' – both mean cozy sleepwear.

📖 Example

After a long day, I love to change into my soft pajamas and read a book before bed. 🔊 Following a long day, I enjoy putting on my comfortable pajamas and reading a book before sleeping.

🔗 Collocations

a pair of pajamas – A set of sleeping clothes consisting of top and pants.

pajama bottoms – The pants part of a pajama set.

flannel pajamas – Pajamas made of soft, warm flannel fabric.

🔄 Synonyms

nightwear (n.) – Clothing worn for sleeping or lounging at home.

sleepwear (n.) – Garments specifically designed for sleeping.

nightclothes (n.) – Alternative term for pajamas or nightgowns.

🌱 Derivatives

pajama (adj.) – Relating to or suitable for pajamas, e.g., pajama party.

📖 Cultural Story

Originating from Persian 'pāyjāmeh' (leg garment), adopted into English via Hindi in colonial India. Initially meant loose trousers, later evolved to modern sleepwear.