Sweater vs. Hoodie: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on October 13, 2023
A "Sweater" is a knitted garment worn over the upper body, while a "Hoodie" is a pullover or zip-up sweatshirt with a hood.
Key Differences
Both the Sweater and the Hoodie are popular clothing items designed to provide warmth. The primary purpose of a Sweater is to insulate against the cold, often crafted from wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers. The Hoodie, while also offering warmth, frequently comes with a more casual or sporty connotation, often made from materials like fleece or a cotton-polyester blend.
The defining characteristic of a Sweater is its knit construction. Whether it's a cardigan, v-neck, or crew neck, the Sweater is versatile in style and can range from casual to formal. In contrast, the Hoodie, characterized by its hood, usually has a more relaxed and casual style, suited for athletic or informal settings.
A Sweater can be donned as part of a stylish ensemble, sometimes layered with other clothing like shirts or blazers. Its design can be intricate with patterns or simple and plain. Conversely, a Hoodie is often linked with leisure or sporty activities, its design frequently boasting logos or graphics, with the added utility of a pocket in front and sometimes drawstrings for the hood.
Lastly, while both the Sweater and the Hoodie offer warmth, the Sweater is often perceived as a classic or timeless piece of attire suitable for various occasions. The Hoodie, on the other hand, embodies a youthful and modern vibe, especially popular among younger generations.
Comparison Chart
Primary Material
Often wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers.
Usually fleece or a cotton-polyester blend.
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Characteristic
Knit construction.
Hood, often with drawstrings.
Style Variations
Cardigan, v-neck, crew neck, etc.
Pullover, zip-up.
Common Use
Versatile; from casual to formal.
Casual, sporty, leisure.
Additional Features
Can have intricate patterns.
Usually has a front pocket.
Sweater and Hoodie Definitions
Sweater
A clothing item designed to provide warmth.
He put on his favorite sweater before going out.
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Hoodie
A pullover or zip-up garment offering warmth.
The chilly weather made her grateful for her thick hoodie.
Sweater
A piece often layered with other clothing.
She styled her outfit with a cardigan sweater over her blouse.
Hoodie
A sweatshirt with a hood.
He wore a hoodie to his morning jog.
Sweater
A garment that can range from casual to formal.
For the dinner party, he chose a fine-knit sweater.
Hoodie
A garment frequently with front pockets and drawstrings.
She adjusted the drawstrings of her hoodie to tighten the hood.
Sweater
A clothing piece made from various materials.
The cotton sweater was perfect for the breezy evening.
Hoodie
A casual garment often worn in leisure settings.
On weekends, he preferred lounging in his hoodie.
Sweater
A knitted garment worn over the upper body.
She wore a cozy wool sweater during winter.
Hoodie
A sweatshirt often made of fleece or cotton blends.
The soft fleece hoodie became her go-to comfort wear.
Sweater
A garment for the upper body of wool, cotton, or synthetic yarn, typically knitted, having long sleeves, and worn in cold weather.
Hoodie
A hooded garment, especially a hooded sweatshirt.
Sweater
One that sweats, especially profusely.
Hoodie
A sweatshirt with an integral hood and, sometimes, a large kangaroo pocket at the front.
You can buy hoodies on the cheap in summer.
Sweater
Something that induces sweating; a sudorific.
Hoodie
A young person wearing such a sweatshirt, usually a male, stereotypically associated with antisocial behaviour.
Sweater
A knitted jacket or jersey, usually of thick wool, worn by athletes before or after exercise.
Hoodie
(slang) foreskin
Sweater
(US) A similar garment worn for warmth.
Hoodie
The hooded crow, Corvus cornix.
Sweater
One who sweats (produces sweat).
Sweater
One who or that which causes to sweat.
Sweater
A diaphoretic remedy.
Sweater
(historical) An exploitative middleman who subcontracted piece work in the tailoring trade.
Sweater
(archaic) One who sweats coins, i.e. removes small portions by shaking them.
Sweater
A London street ruffian in Queen Anne's time who prodded weak passengers with his sword-point.
Sweater
(transitive) To dress in a sweater.
Sweater
One who sweats.
Sweater
One who, or that which, causes to sweat
Sweater
A crocheted or knitted garment covering the upper part of the body
Sweater
A person who perspires
FAQs
Can a sweater be sleeveless?
Yes, there are sleeveless versions of sweaters, often called sweater vests.
Do all hoodies have zippers?
No, hoodies can be pullovers without zippers or zip-up styles.
Is a hoodie considered formal wear?
Generally, hoodies are seen as casual or sporty attire and not formal wear.
What's the difference between a sweater and a jumper?
In American English, a jumper is a sleeveless dress or a pinafore. In British English, "jumper" is synonymous with "sweater."
Can sweaters have hoods?
Yes, some sweaters have hoods, blending features of both garments.
Are all sweaters made of wool?
No, sweaters can be made from wool, cotton, synthetic fibers, and other materials.
Is a hoodie thicker than a sweater?
Not necessarily. The thickness depends on the material and design, not the classification.
Can hoodies have graphics or logos?
Yes, many hoodies feature graphics, logos, or designs, adding to their casual look.
Can I wear a sweater to a formal event?
Depending on its design and the nature of the event, a sweater can be suitable for formal occasions.
Is a hoodie suitable for exercising?
Yes, many people wear hoodies for workouts or sports, especially in cooler conditions.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
