Closefitting

Closefitting (also written as close-fitting) is an adjective describing an object or garment that conforms tightly to its surface or form, leaving little space between the two. It emphasizes proximity to the underlying shape rather than a loose or draped silhouette.

In clothing and textiles, close-fitting garments hug the body and are common in athletic wear, underwear, and performance gear. Achieving a close fit relies on cut lines that follow body contours and on stretch fabrics such as spandex, elastane, or Lycra. The term is often used alongside form-fitting or snug to describe how closely a garment traces the body's outline, with considerations given to comfort, range of motion, and support.

In engineering and manufacturing, close-fitting components are designed with minimal clearance between mating parts. Such fits reduce play and can improve alignment, stiffness, or overall precision, but they typically require tighter tolerances and careful assembly. Depending on the design objective, a close fit may involve a small clearance, a interference or press fit, or other fit regimes chosen to balance ease of assembly with performance.

The concept also appears in other domains where tight matching is desirable, such as instrumentation housings, mechanical sleeves, or armor where tight tolerances contribute to function or protection. Related terms include form-fitting, snug, tight fit, and tailored, each carrying nuanced emphasis on contour, deformation, or production precision.