off-the-rack — ready-made; available for immediate purchase without customization
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: ready-made; available for immediate purchase without customization
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌɔːf ðə ˈræk/
Example Sentences
- The groom was so late that he had to settle for an off-the-rack tuxedo that made him look like a penguin at his own wedding.
- Most companies prefer off-the-rack software solutions rather than developing custom applications.
- She tried on the off-the-rack dress and joked that it fit her like a potato sack with sleeves.
off-the-rack
ADJECTIVE[/ˌɔːf ðə ˈræk/]
ready-made; available for immediate purchase without customization

ready-made; available for immediate purchase without customization

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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase originated in 20th-century American English, referring to ready-made clothing that could be purchased directly from display racks in retail stores. It developed as a contrasting concept to custom-made or tailor-made garments, emphasizing immediate availability and mass production.
Breakdown
off (away from) + the (definite article) + rack (a framework or stand for displaying merchandise). The compound idiomatically denotes garments taken directly from retail display stands without customization.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The groom was so late that he had to settle for an off-the-rack tuxedo that made him look like a penguin at his own wedding.”
“Most companies prefer off-the-rack software solutions rather than developing custom applications.”
“She tried on the off-the-rack dress and joked that it fit her like a potato sack with sleeves.”
“Off-the-rack furniture is more affordable but may not fit your specific space requirements.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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