rashie
noun · casual
A rash vest: a tight, stretchy top you wear in the water to protect your skin from the sun.
How do Aussies use ‘rashie’?
- Don't forget your rashie and a hat.
- All the kids wore rashies at swimming lessons.
How to pronounce ‘rashie’
Say it like this: RASH-ee
‘rashie’ in a conversation
Grace: Have you got everything for the beach?
Liam: Yep, boardies, my rashie, sunscreen and a hat.
What else should you know about ‘rashie’?
Very common at Aussie beaches and pools because the sun is strong. Parents often put their kids in rashies, and lots of adults wear them for surfing too.
Where will you hear ‘rashie’?
You'll hear 'rashie' at the beach, at pools, at swimming lessons and in surf and sports shops. Schools often ask kids to wear one for swimming carnivals and beach days.
How do you reply or use ‘rashie’ yourself?
If someone says 'Put your rashie on', they want you to cover up from the sun before swimming. You can use the word when you're shopping: 'Where are the kids' rashies?'
More examples
- Her rashie has long sleeves to protect her arms.
- I wear a rashie when I go snorkelling.
- The swim school asks all the kids to wear rashies.
🎧 Recorded with Australian AI voices (Bec and Davo from our Listening Room), so you hear a natural Aussie accent on every device.
What mistake do learners make with ‘rashie’?
It isn't about a skin rash. It's called a rash vest because it also stops your skin rubbing on a surfboard.
What can you say instead in formal English?
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use rash vest / swim shirt 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?
The sun is strong today, so wear your ___ in the water.
Show the answer
rashie
Quick check
What does ‘rashie’ mean?
- A rash vest: a tight, stretchy top you wear in the water to protect your skin from the sun.
- Very angry.
- To suddenly get very angry or upset, like a child.
Show the answer
A. A rash vest: a tight, stretchy top you wear in the water to protect your skin from the sun.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'rashie' mean in Australia?
A rash vest: a tight, stretchy top you wear in the water to protect your skin from the sun. Very common at Aussie beaches and pools because the sun is strong. Parents often put their kids in rashies, and lots of adults wear them for surfing too.
Can I say 'rashie' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'rashie' 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 'rashie'?
Say it like this: RASH-ee. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'rashie'?
You'll hear 'rashie' at the beach, at pools, at swimming lessons and in surf and sports shops. Schools often ask kids to wear one for swimming carnivals and beach days.