Omkleden

Omkleden is a Dutch verb meaning to change clothing, to dress again, or to switch into different clothes. It can be used reflexively (zich omkleden) when the subject changes their own attire, or transitively (omkleden) when one person changes the clothes of another or when describing a change of clothes in general. In everyday language the reflexive form is most common, used for personal preparation or changing outfits for a specific situation. The non-reflexive use appears in contexts such as sports, theatre, hospitality, or care settings, where someone else may perform the change of clothes for another person or where the action is described more impersonally.

Etymology and form: Omkleden is formed from the prefix om- attached to kleden, the verb meaning to clothe. The om- prefix signals a change of state. It is related to the Dutch noun kleding (clothing) and cognate with the German kleiden.

Usage and contexts: In daily life, people say Ik moet me omkleden voordat we naar het diner gaan. In sports and theatre, players and performers often change clothes in the locker room or backstage. In care or medical settings, staff may help patients to omkleden for comfort, safety, or procedures. The term thus covers both routine wardrobe changes and more structured clothing shifts in professional environments.

See also: kleding, kleed, kleden.