1. a woman’s undergarment worn beneath a dress or skirt
2. a skirt, especially one that is full or ruffled
Usage: somewhat archaic

Examples

• She wore a white petticoat under her wedding dress.
• The vintage petticoat had delicate lace trim around the hem.
• Her petticoat rustled softly as she walked down the stairs.
• The costume required a full petticoat to achieve the proper silhouette.
• She adjusted her petticoat before putting on the formal gown.
• The museum displayed petticoats from the Victorian era.