Definition of the word nightclothes

The word "nightclothes" finds its origins in the late 16th century, when the concept of separating everyday clothing from sleepwear became popular. Prior to this, people would wear their regular daytime clothes to bed, irrespective of dirt, sweat or heat. However, as lifestyles changed and the idea of hygiene gained prominence, it became necessary to wear clean and comfortable clothing while sleeping. The term "nightclothes" itself originated from the combination of two existing words - "night" and "clothes." In old English, the word for night was "nætt," and the word for clothes was "clathh." The word "cloth" in modern standard English also originated from the same Old English root "clæthh." The term "nightclothes" originally referred to a long, loose, and white robe that was worn in bed to sleep. In the 17th century, this robe became a symbol of luxury and affluence, especially among the wealthy. Common people, however, continued to sleep in their everyday clothes. With the advent of industrialization and easier access to textiles, nightclothes became more readily available, and people gradually started wearing them as a matter of practicality. By the 19th century, the term "nightclothes" came to encompass a variety of sleepwear, including pajamas, nightgowns, and nightshirts. In conclusion, the origins of the word "nightclothes" can be traced back to the 16th century when the idea of separating sleepwear from everyday clothing gained popularity. The term itself came from the combination of the Old English words for night and clothes, and it initially referred to a long, loose, and white robe worn for sleeping. Today, the term continues to be used to describe a variety of sleepwear items.