A long dress or skirt that extends to the ankle or floor. Also used as an adjective meaning maximum or largest.
From Latin 'maximus' meaning 'greatest' or 'largest', shortened to 'maxi' in the 1960s fashion industry. The fashion term emerged as a contrast to 'mini' skirts, representing the opposite end of the length spectrum.
The maxi dress became a symbol of 1960s counterculture rebellion, ironically covering more skin while representing liberation from restrictive fashion norms. Fashion historians note that the maxi's popularity coincided with the women's liberation movement, offering comfort and freedom of movement.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.