Definition
Military uniform designed for combat operations rather than ceremony, optimized for functionality over looking sharp at parades. The practical outfit that prioritizes not dying over impressing generals.
Example Usage
Switch to battledress and ditch the dress bluesβwe're going to the field, not a ball.
Origin
British military terminology from the early 20th century
Fun Fact
The term has largely been replaced by more specific designations like ACU (Army Combat Uniform) or BDU (Battle Dress Uniform), but old habits die hard in military vocabulary.
Source: British and Commonwealth military uniform regulations
Related Terms
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See “Battledress” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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