Hoodie or Hoody: Which One Should You Use?

If you’ve ever shopped for a hooded sweatshirt online or in a store, you might have seen it spelled in two ways: “hoodie” and “hoody.” This small difference can cause confusion, especially when different brands and websites use different spellings.

So, which one is correct?

The simple answer: “hoodie” is the more widely accepted spelling, while “hoody” is a less common variation. However, both spellings exist, and neither is technically incorrect.

• “Hoodie” is the preferred spelling in American English and is used by major retailers and fashion brands.
• “Hoody” is sometimes used in British English but is far less common overall.
• Both spellings refer to the same thing: a sweatshirt or jacket with a hood.

This article will break down the differences, explain the history, and help you decide which spelling to use based on context, branding, and SEO benefits.

What is a Hoodie (or Hoody)?

A hoodie (or hoody) is a type of sweatshirt or jacket with an attached hood. It is often made of soft, warm fabric like cotton, fleece, or polyester. The hoodie is a staple in casual wear, sportswear, and street fashion.

Key features of a hoodie include:

• Hood with drawstrings – Helps adjust the fit and provides warmth.
• Front pocket or kangaroo pocket – Commonly used to keep hands warm or carry small items.
• Pullover or zip-up design – Hoodies come in both styles, with zip-up hoodies being more versatile.
• Soft, comfortable material – Often lined with fleece for extra warmth.

Hoodies are worn by people of all ages and styles, from athletes and students to celebrities and professionals.

The Origins of “Hoodie” and “Hoody”

Where Did the Hoodie Come From?

The hoodie has an interesting history that dates back centuries. While the modern hoodie is associated with streetwear and sportswear, its origins go back to medieval Europe.

• 12th–16th Century: Monks and laborers wore hooded robes and cloaks for warmth.
• 1930s: Champion, a U.S.-based brand, introduced hooded sweatshirts for workers in cold warehouses.
• 1970s–1980s: Hoodies became popular in hip-hop culture, sports, and college fashion.
• 1990s–2000s: The hoodie gained mainstream acceptance, appearing in high fashion, movies, and streetwear brands.

Where Did the Terms “Hoodie” and “Hoody” Come From?

The word “hoodie” evolved from the term “hooded sweatshirt”, which simply describes a sweatshirt with a hood. The term became popular in the 1990s, as the garment gained widespread popularity.

“Hoody” is simply an alternative spelling of “hoodie.” It is not as commonly used and is mostly seen in British English or specific brand names.

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“Hoodie” vs. “Hoody”: Which One Should You Use?

Now that we know both spellings exist, the big question is: which one should you use?

When to Use “Hoodie”

• If you are writing in American English.
• If you are listing products on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, eBay, or Shopify.
• If you are following major fashion brands’ terminology.
• If you are optimizing content for SEO, as “hoodie” has higher search volume.

When to Use “Hoody”

• If you are following British English spelling preferences (though “hoodie” is still more common in the UK).
• If you are branding a product and want a unique spelling.
• If you are using a brand name that already includes “hoody.”

While “hoody” is not wrong, “hoodie” is the safer and more widely accepted choice.

The Plural Form of Hoodie and Hoody: Which is Correct?

Understanding the correct plural form is important, especially when writing product descriptions or articles.

• Hoodie → Hoodies (Correct)
• Hoody → Hoodies (Correct)
• Hoody → Hoodys (Incorrect)

Regardless of which spelling you use, the plural form remains “hoodies”.

Examples of “Hoodie” and “Hoody” in Sentences

Sentences Using “Hoodie”

• I bought a new hoodie for winter.
• This hoodie is made of 100% cotton.
• He always wears a black hoodie with jeans.

Sentences Using “Hoody”

• She packed her favorite hoody for the trip.
• The store sells a variety of hoody styles.
• His old hoody finally wore out after years of use.

Sentences Using “Hoodies”

• The store had a sale on hoodies this weekend.
• We designed custom hoodies for the basketball team.
• Celebrities often wear oversized hoodies as part of their casual style.

How Spelling Affects Branding and Marketing?

If you’re launching a clothing brand or writing product descriptions, choosing the right spelling can impact your search rankings and customer perception.

• SEO Impact: “Hoodie” has significantly higher search volume than “hoody.”
• Branding Consistency: Major retailers like Nike, Adidas, and H&M use “hoodie.”
• Consumer Recognition: Most people expect to see “hoodie” in online stores.

Unless you have a specific reason to use “hoody,” it’s better to stick with “hoodie” for better visibility and clarity.

Fun Facts About Hoodies

• The term “hoodie” was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 1992.
• Mark Zuckerberg is known for wearing hoodies as his daily outfit.
• Hoodies were once banned in some shopping malls due to concerns about shoplifting.
• The most expensive hoodie ever sold was made by Balenciaga and cost over $10,000.
• Some modern hoodies include built-in headphones and heating technology.

Conclusion: The Best Spelling Choice for You

So, should you use “hoodie” or “hoody”? Go with “hoodie” in most cases. It’s the dominant spelling worldwide, preferred by brands, and better for SEO. “Hoody” is acceptable but far less common.

Now that you know the difference, which spelling do you prefer? Let us know in the comments!