petticoat
UK[ˈpɛtɪkəʊt]US[ˈpɛtɪkoʊt]
n
a skirt, typically a full and stiff one, worn as an undergarment, especially in historical contexts.
n
(historical) a woman's light, loose undergarment hanging from the shoulders or the waist.
Morpheme Breakdown
petty
coat
petty
small
coat
garment
Etymology
the word 'petticoat' originated in the late middle english period, formed from the combination of 'petty' (meaning small or little) and 'coat' (meaning a garment). the term initially referred to a small coat or jacket worn by men. however, its application shifted to women's fashion, where it came to denote a short undercoat or waistcoat. over time, the meaning evolved specifically to describe a skirt-like undergarment worn by women and children, with the 'petty' element emphasizing its status as a secondary, smaller garment worn beneath the main outer 'coat' or gown. this evolution reflects a common pattern where a term for a general garment becomes specialized for undergarments.
Analysis
Structure: petty (small) + coat (garment)
petty: from middle english 'peti', meaning small or little, of old french origin.
coat: from middle english 'cote', meaning an outer garment, of old french origin.
Examples
in the 18th century, a woman's dress often included a lace-trimmed petticoat for added volume.
the historical reenactor carefully ironed her linen petticoat before dressing.
the term "petticoat government" was once a derogatory phrase for female influence or rule.