calf-length

IPA/ˈkɑːf.leŋθ/
IPA/ˈkæf.leŋθ/

calf-length — adjective

1. describing clothes or boots that reach the middle of the lower leg, below the kn

1.adjectiveB2
Definition

describing clothes or boots that reach the middle of the lower leg, below the knee and above the ankle

Example

Indra wore a calf-length coat over a cream dress on the train.

calf-length coat showing garment length

At the fitting, Yara chose a calf-length skirt for the office party.

common fashion collocation: calf-length skirt

Common collocations
  • calf-length coat
  • calf-length skirt
  • calf-length dress
  • calf-length boots
  • calf-length cut
Synonyms
  • mid-calf

    almost the same meaning and often used in fashion descriptions

  • midi

    commonly used for skirts or dresses, not for boots

Antonyms

Usage Note

Usually used before a noun, especially with skirt, dress, coat, and boots. For trousers, speakers often choose 'cropped' or 'mid-calf' unless the exact style label matters.

Common Mistakes

She bought a calf-length to wear with boots.
She bought a calf-length coat to wear with boots.
The adjective needs a noun after it.

Etymology

English

This compound combines calf, meaning the back part of the lower leg, with length. In clothing and footwear descriptions, it tells you how far the item reaches on the leg.