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gym strip
DCHP-3.1 (Mar 2026)
Spelling variants:Gym Strip
n. — Sports, Education
the sports outfit worn in gym class or in exercise sessions.
Type: 1. Origin — Gym strip is a Canadian innovation. Its earliest attestation dates to 1930 (see quotation). The term is uncommon in the UK (attested only since the 1990s, not listed in the OED-3), as well as in the US (not listed in major US dictionaries such as Merriam-Webster). It is Canadian also by virtue of its frequency (see Chart 1).
The term is in active use, see the 2026 quotation, though it has been more widespread formerly.
Quotations
1930
LOST AND FOUND […] THURSDAY NIGHT, BLACK CLUB BAG ON Broadway between Tech. School and Cambie St., containing ex-Tech. Gym strip.
1959
On arrival the boys drew their blankets, mattresses and clothing consisting of two pairs of shorts, longs, gym strip, coveralls and wet weather covering.
1967
Long wearing nylon bag ideal for gym strip, etc. Sturdy carrying handles, seam reinforcing. Full zipper top with lock and key for added safety.
1983
Beginning 12 year [sic] ago when anyone out of high school who ran around in gym strip was considered "something of a nut," he was at the vanguard of the jogging craze that hit the province in the late 1970s.
2020
My school required gym strip which was like T-shirt and shorts, but wasnt [sic] provided by the school so it also wasnt [sic] a uniform.
2023
We were told that we got that stuff for free. Those were the things that stuck with me. At the time, you could go to the front office and get a pencil. You had your gym strip, pencils, everything given to you for free.
2026
The online store for Gym Strip and ICS Apparel is opening again for the new school year! To order, please click the link below.
References
- OED-3
- Merriam-Webster Unabridged
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