A bra, short for brassiere or brassière, is a form-fitting undergarment that is primarily used to support and cover a womans breasts. A typical bra consists of a chest band that wraps around the torso, supporting two breast cups that are held in place by shoulder straps. A bra usually fastens in the back, using a hook and eye fastener, although bras are available in a large range of styles and sizes, including front-fastening and backless designs. Some bras are designed for specific functions, such as nursing bras to facilitate breastfeeding or sports bras to minimize discomfort during exercise.
According to the Cambridge English Dictionary, a bra is "a piece of womens underwear that supports the breasts". Merriam-Webster defines a bra as a brassiere.
Wearing a bra has both advantages and disadvantages. Some advantages include providing support and comfort, improving posture, and enhancing the appearance of clothing. Some disadvantages include discomfort, skin irritation, and potential damage to breast tissue.
The history of bras dates back to ancient Greece, where women wore a band of wool or linen to support their breasts during exercise. Early bras were either wrap-around bodices or boned, close-fitting camisoles worn over the corset. They were designed to hold the bust in and down against the corset, which provided upward support. Throughout the years, bras have evolved in design and style, with the molded one-piece, seamless bra cup becoming ubiquitous in the 2000s.
