boardies
noun · casual
Board shorts: long, loose shorts for swimming and surfing.
How Aussies use it
- I wore my boardies to the beach.
- He bought new boardies for the holiday.
How to pronounce ‘boardies’
Say it like this: BOR-deez
‘boardies’ in a conversation
Jake: Should I wear my boardies to the pool party?
Mia: Yep, and bring your thongs and sunnies.
Good to know
A beach favourite for men and boys, and lots of women wear them too. They're longer and looser than 'budgie smugglers'.
Where you'll hear ‘boardies’
You'll hear 'boardies' at the beach, at the pool and in surf shops. People also mention them when they pack for summer holidays.
How to reply or use it yourself
If someone says 'Bring your boardies', they mean pack something to swim in. You can use the word yourself when you're shopping: 'Where are the boardies?'
More examples
- My boardies dried quickly in the sun.
- He wears his boardies all summer.
- The surf shop has a sale on boardies this week.
🎧 Recorded with Australian AI voices (Bec and Davo from our Listening Room), so you hear a natural Aussie accent on every device.
A common mistake
They're for the beach or pool. Don't wear them to a job interview!
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use board shorts instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Fill the gap
Which word goes in the gap?
We're going surfing, so I'll wear my ___.
Show the answer
boardies
Quick check
What does ‘boardies’ mean?
- No chance at all.
- Board shorts: long, loose shorts for swimming and surfing.
- An expression of surprise.
Show the answer
B. Board shorts: long, loose shorts for swimming and surfing.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'boardies' mean in Australia?
Board shorts: long, loose shorts for swimming and surfing. A beach favourite for men and boys, and lots of women wear them too. They're longer and looser than 'budgie smugglers'.
Can I say 'boardies' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'boardies' is fine in a chat at smoko or a casual message, but don't use it with clients, in formal emails, or in the PTE and IELTS writing tests.
How do you pronounce 'boardies'?
Say it like this: BOR-deez. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'boardies'?
You'll hear 'boardies' at the beach, at the pool and in surf shops. People also mention them when they pack for summer holidays.