Whether you’re shopping online, writing a fashion blog, or just wondering which spelling to use in your text message, the question often pops up: Hoody or Hoodie? If you’ve found yourself pausing mid-sentence to ask “how do you spell hoodie?” — you’re not alone.
In this article, we’ll unpack everything about the spelling of “hoodie,” explore its origins, analyze how it’s used across regions, and help you confidently choose the right version every time.
Quick Summary
Still deciding between hoodie or hoody? Here’s a fast breakdown to clear things up:
- “Hoodie” is the correct and widely accepted spelling.
- “Hoody” is an informal variant, occasionally seen in British English or creative writing.
- Major dictionaries like Merriam-Webster, Oxford, and Cambridge list only “hoodie” as the standard spelling.
- Online, “hoodie” dominates search trends, e-commerce listings, and fashion industry terminology.
- If you’re asking how to spell hoodie for writing, publishing, or branding, “hoodie” is the preferred choice.
- The plural is always hoodies, never hoodys.
What Does “Hoodie” (or “Hoody”) Actually Mean?
A hoodie (or hoody) is a type of sweatshirt or jacket that features a hood. Usually made of cotton or fleece, it’s often worn for comfort, casual wear, or athletic purposes. Some hoodies come with front pockets or zippers, others are simple pullover styles.
They’re common across age groups and have even become fashion statements in urban and high-street styles.
Popular features of a hoodie/hoody:
- Hood with drawstrings
- Kangaroo front pocket or zip-up closure
- Made from soft, thick fabric (usually cotton or blends)
- Often associated with casual, relaxed fashion
From gym gear to streetwear, the hoodie has evolved into a cultural icon.
Hoodie vs Hoody: Which Spelling Is Correct?
So, hoody or hoodie — which one is the right choice?
Let’s answer the burning question: how do you spell hoodie?
The correct spelling is: hoodie.
That’s the version officially recognized by:
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary
- Oxford English Dictionary
- Cambridge Dictionary
- Collins Dictionary
The spelling “hoody” is an informal variant, sometimes used in stylized writing or regional dialects, but it’s not considered the standard.
Why “hoodie” is standard:
- Most used in global fashion and retail industries
- Common in news outlets and published writing
- Dominates internet search trends (see Google Trends data below)
The Case for “Hoodie”
Hoodie is:
- Dictionary-approved: Found in all major dictionaries
- Retail-preferred: Used by Amazon, Nike, Adidas, and nearly all major brands
- SEO-friendly: The most searched term globally
Example:
“This hoodie is made from recycled cotton.” – Adidas product description
Google Trends Snapshot:
| Term | Search Popularity (Global) |
|---|---|
| Hoodie | 92 |
| Hoody | 8 |
Clearly, when it comes to how to spell hoodie, “hoodie” wins by a landslide.
The Case for “Hoody”
While “hoodie” dominates, hoody is still seen occasionally, especially in:
- British English publications
- Older literature or informal writing
- Brand names aiming for uniqueness (e.g., stylized product titles)
Note: It’s not incorrect, but it’s far less standard.
Example:
“He tossed his hoody on the back of the couch.” – Casual British blog
Still wondering how to spell hoodie when writing formally? Stick with hoodie.
Etymology and Evolution: Where Did the Word Come From?
The word hoodie evolved from the word hood, which has Middle English roots from the Old English “hōd,” akin to the modern word “hat” or “covering.”
The suffix –ie is a common diminutive used in English to give a word a more casual or friendly tone (think “selfie,” “movie,” or “doggie”).
Timeline of the Word “Hoodie”:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1930s | Hooded sweatshirts introduced by Champion |
| 1970s | Gained popularity among college athletes |
| 1990s | Became a staple in streetwear culture |
| 2000s | “Hoodie” enters dictionaries and style lexicon |
So the next time someone asks how do you spell hoodie, you can share its evolution too.
Regional and Cultural Differences in Spelling
The spelling you see might depend on where you are.
US English vs UK English:
- United States: Almost exclusively “hoodie”
- United Kingdom: Mostly “hoodie,” but “hoody” pops up in informal writing
Brand Usage Across Regions:
| Brand | Region | Spelling Used |
|---|---|---|
| Nike | US/Global | Hoodie |
| Boohoo | UK | Hoodie |
| Lonsdale | UK | Occasionally “Hoody” |
| H&M | Global | Hoodie |
In most cases, even UK-based brands use “hoodie” for consistency and SEO.
Plural Forms: Hoodies or Hoodys?
When it comes to pluralization, spelling rules still apply.
Read More:
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Correct plural: hoodies
Why not “hoodys”?
Words ending in –ie typically follow these rules:
- Drop the –ie and add –ies.
- Follows the same rule as “parties,” “stories,” or “buddies.”
Examples:
- I own three hoodies.
- I own three hoodys.
| Singular | Plural |
|---|---|
| Hoodie | Hoodies |
| Hoody | Hoodies |
Even if you use “hoody” informally, the plural is still “hoodies.”
Real-World Usage: Which One Do People Actually Use?
Google Trends:
- “Hoodie” consistently outperforms “hoody” in every country.
- In the US, it’s nearly a 10:1 ratio.
Fashion Websites:
A look at top online retailers:
| Retailer | Preferred Spelling |
|---|---|
| Amazon | Hoodie |
| ASOS | Hoodie |
| Urban Outfitters | Hoodie |
| JD Sports (UK) | Hoodie |
Quote from a linguist:
“Language adapts to user preference, and digital search trends reinforce dominant spellings. ‘Hoodie’ is both the people’s choice and the correct editorial choice.” — Dr. Erin Monaghan, Oxford Linguist
Usage in Sentences (with Context)
Sentences Using “Hoodie”:
- “I grabbed my gray hoodie before heading out.”
- “Her hoodie collection takes up two drawers.”
Using “Hoody”:
- “He zipped up his favorite hoody and left.” (informal)
- “That brand spells it hoody, but it’s the same thing.”
Sentences Using “Hoodies”:
- “Custom hoodies are available in bulk.”
- “They launched a new line of eco-friendly hoodies.”
Should You Use “Hoodie” or “Hoody”?
If you’re writing for:
- SEO, business, or branding — use hoodie
- Academic or formal writing — use hoodie
- Casual or creative writing — “hoody” is acceptable, but know your audience
Quick Reference Table:
| Context | Recommended Spelling |
|---|---|
| Academic writing | Hoodie |
| Fashion retail copy | Hoodie |
| Brand name creativity | Hoody (optional) |
| Social media posts | Hoodie |
TL;DR: If you’re wondering how to spell hoodie, go with hoodie unless you have a niche reason not to.
Common Misspellings & Related Terms
Even popular terms get mangled sometimes. Here’s what to avoid:
Common Misspellings:
- Hoddie
- Hoodee
- Houdy
- Hoodi
Related Words:
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pullover | Sweatshirt without a zip |
| Sweatshirt | General term, may or may not have hood |
| Tracksuit | Full athletic outfit with hoodie and pants |
| Zip-up | Hoodie with a front zipper |
Conclusion
So, hoody or hoodie — now you know the answer.
If you’re still unsure how to spell hoodie, remember this:
- “Hoodie” is the widely accepted, correct spelling.
- “Hoody” is an informal variant you might see occasionally, mostly in British or niche creative settings.
- When in doubt, especially for business or formal use, choose hoodie.
With usage data, grammar rules, and real-world trends backing it up, hoodie is clearly the winner in the hoodie vs hoody debate.
Quick Takeaways:
- Hoodie is the standard spelling
- Hoody is informal and uncommon
- Plural is hoodies, not hoodys
- “Hoodie” dominates SEO, sales, and usage worldwide
Next time you’re browsing for comfy clothes or writing about streetwear, you won’t have to pause and wonder how to spell hoodie—you’ve got the facts.
Looking to stay fashion-literate? Bookmark this guide so you never miss a beat—or a spelling!
Lisa Morris is a seasoned blogger and language enthusiast with a passion for making grammar simple and engaging. At Grammar Scoop, she shares clear, concise tips that help readers master the rules of English with confidence.
