bell-bottoms

plural noun

bell-bot·​toms ˈbel-ˈbä-təmz How to pronounce bell-bottoms (audio)
Synonyms of bell-bottomsnext
: pants with wide flaring bottoms
bell-bottom
ˈbel-ˈbä-təm How to pronounce bell-bottoms (audio)
adjective

Examples of bell-bottoms in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Michael wore bell-bottoms, and his hair was long and curly, like Leah’s. — Ruby Cramer, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026 Her looks often incorporated classic country motifs like cowboy hats or bell-bottom jeans, though usually made Dolly-appropriate with a healthy helping of sparkles and vibrant hues. — Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026 Keep scrolling to shop more bell-bottom jeans inspired by Kelly Clarkson. — Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 22 July 2026 Pulling inspiration from the groovy ‘70s, the bell-bottom bob flips out for a cute and quirky look. — Alyssa Rotunno, InStyle, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for bell-bottoms

Word History

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bell-bottoms was in 1904

Rhymes for bell-bottoms

See All Rhymes for bell-bottoms

Browse Nearby Words

bell-bottomed
bell-bottoms
bellboy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bell-bottoms.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bell-bottoms. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bell-bottoms

plural noun
bell-bot·​toms
ˈbel-ˈbät-əmz
: pants with legs that widen out at the bottom
bell-bottom adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on bell-bottoms

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for bell-bottoms

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