single-breasted
UK[ˈsɪŋɡlˌbrestɪd]US[ˈsɪŋɡlˌbrestɪd]
adj
(of a jacket, coat, etc.) having only one vertical row of buttons and a narrow overlap of fabric at the front.
Morpheme Breakdown
single
breast
ed
single
one
breast
chest
ed
adjective suffix
Etymology
The compound adjective "single-breasted" is a descriptive term from tailoring, formed entirely from native English elements. The first element, "single," traces back to Latin singulus, meaning one or individual, emphasizing singularity. The second element, "breast," originates from the Old English word for the chest, here used metonymically to denote the front overlapping panels of a garment. The suffix "-ed" converts this noun phrase into an adjective, literally describing a garment "having a single chest," which evolved into the specific sartorial meaning of a front closure with one row of buttons and a narrow overlap, contrasting with the double-breasted style.
Analysis
Structure: single (one) + breast (chest) + ed (adjective suffix)
- single: From Latin singulus (one, individual). Functional role: Modifying root, indicating the number one.
- breast: From Old English brēost (chest, bosom). Functional role: Core noun root, referring to the front part of the body.
- ed: From Old English -ede, adjectival suffix. Functional role: Derivational suffix, forming an adjective meaning "having the characteristic of".
Examples
He preferred the sleek look of a single-breasted suit for the business meeting.
The classic trench coat is often designed as a single-breasted garment.
For a more formal appearance, the double-breasted blazer is sometimes chosen over the single-breasted version.