hemline

noun

hem·​line ˈhem-ˌlīn How to pronounce hemline (audio)
: the line formed by the lower edge of a dress, skirt, or coat

Examples of hemline in a Sentence

The hemline falls just above the knee. I shortened the hemline on the dress.
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.
While unconventional, the gown’s shorter hemline was not unheard of in the ‘60s, with celebrities such as Audrey Hepburn, Mia Farrow and Yoko Ono further popularizing the style. — Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 27 Aug. 2026 The Transformers star’s flowing tresses extended past the hemline of her lace-up leather crop top. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 26 Aug. 2026 Read on to find the 12 best petite deals worth snagging from brands like Hanes, Lee, and Gap, and bid farewell to dragging hemlines and ill-fitting clothing once and for all. — Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 15 Aug. 2026 Shorter hemlines may be egging on this summer skin trend, but don’t toss that minidress just yet. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hemline

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hemline was in 1923

Rhymes for hemline

See All Rhymes for hemline

Browse Nearby Words

hemizygous
hemline
hemlock
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

hemline

noun
hem·​line ˈhem-ˌlīn How to pronounce hemline (audio)
: the line formed by the hem of a dress, skirt, or coat
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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