English · Word Candidate

sleeve

/sliːv/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: sleeves · sleeving · sleeved

Sense 1

Meaning · English

The part of a garment that covers the arm.

Noun

Examples

The sleeves on my coat are too long.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A (usually tubular) covering or lining to protect a piece of machinery etc.

Noun

Examples

This bearing requires a sleeve so the shaft will fit snugly.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To fit and attach a sleeve to an upper garment (e.g. to a shirt, blouse, sweater, jacket, coat, etc.) or to a folder.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To hide something up one's sleeve.

Verb

Examples

There are certain types of sleeving that are difficult to perform with the shirt sleeves down, and it is difficult and risky to attempt sleeving while wearing a shirt with "French" cuffs.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “sleeve” mean?

The part of a garment that covers the arm.

Is “sleeve” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.