First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
sleeve
noun \ˈslēv\
: the part of a shirt, jacket, etc., that covers all or part of your arm
: a part that fits over or around something to protect it or to hold its parts together
Full Definition of SLEEVE
1
a : a part of a garment covering an arm b : sleevelet
2
a : a tubular part (as a hollow axle or a bushing) designed to fit over another part b : an open-ended flat or tubular packaging or cover; especially : jacket 3c(2)
— sleeved \ˈslēvd\ adjective
— sleeve·less \ˈslēv-ləs\ adjective
— on one's sleeve
: in an honest and open manner —used with wear <wears his emotions on his sleeve>
— up one's sleeve
: held secretly in reserve <has a few tricks up her sleeve>
See sleeve defined for English-language learners
See sleeve defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of SLEEVE
Middle English sleve, from Old English slīefe; perhaps akin to Old English slēfan to slip (clothes) on, slūpan to slip, Old High German sliofan, Latin lubricus slippery
Other Clothing Terms
SLEEVE Defined for Kids
sleeve
noun \ˈslēv\
Definition of SLEEVE for Kids
1
: the part of a piece of clothing covering the arm
2
: a part that fits over or around something like a sleeve
— sleeved \ˈslēvd\ adjective
— sleeve·less \ˈslēv-ləs\ adjective
— up someone's sleeve
: held secretly in reserve <Watch him. He's got something up his sleeve.>
Learn More About SLEEVE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: sleeve bearingPrevious Word in the Dictionary: sleet All Words Near: sleeve
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up sleeve? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).