waistcoat
waistcoat
UK[ˈweɪs.kəʊt]US[ˈweɪs.koʊt]
n
a close-fitting garment for the upper body, typically sleeveless and worn over a shirt and under a jacket, as part of a man's suit.
n
a similar garment worn by women.
Morpheme Breakdown
waist
coat
waist
middle
coat
garment
Etymology
the word 'waistcoat' is a compound formed from the english words 'waist' and 'coat'. its logic is literal, describing a garment that originally covered the waist and upper body. historically, in the 16th and 17th centuries, it was a longer, padded garment worn under an outer coat for warmth. over time, it evolved into the shorter, more decorative sleeveless garment that became a standard component of the three-piece suit, retaining the name that references its original coverage of the torso's midsection.
Analysis
Structure: waist (middle) + coat (garment)
- waist: from middle english 'wast', of germanic origin; refers to the middle part of the body.
- coat: from old french 'cote', of germanic origin; refers to an outer garment.
Examples
he wore a tailored waistcoat under his suit jacket.
the silk waistcoat added a touch of formality to his attire.
she accessorized her outfit with a vintage brocade waistcoat.