Coat: meaning, definitions and examples

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coat

[kəʊt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

clothing

An outer garment with sleeves, worn outdoors and typically extending below the hips.

Synonyms

jacket, outerwear, overcoat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
coat	A 'coat' is a general term for an outer garment that is worn to keep warm or dry. It can be casual or formal, offering protection from the elements. She wore her red coat to keep warm in the chilly weather. Please hang your coat on the rack.
jacket	A 'jacket' typically refers to a shorter, lighter outer garment than a coat. It is often used for both warmth and style, and is more casual. He grabbed his denim jacket before going out. She prefers wearing a leather jacket with her jeans.
overcoat	An 'overcoat' is a long, heavy coat worn over other clothing, typically formal and used in very cold weather. It is often associated with business attire or formal events. He wore an elegant black overcoat to the business meeting. Her wool overcoat kept her warm during the snowy evening.
outerwear	The term 'outerwear' is a broad category that includes any clothing worn on the outside, such as coats, jackets, and rain gear. It is a more formal term often used in retail or fashion contexts. The store has a wide selection of outerwear for winter. Functional outerwear is essential for hiking in unpredictable weather.

Examples of usage

She put on her warm coat before going outside.
He hung his coat on the hook by the door.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

animal fur

The fur or hair covering an animal's skin.

Synonyms

fur, hide, pelage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
coat	Commonly used to refer to a layer of paint, covering, or an item of clothing worn for warmth, especially during cold weather. He put on his coat before going outside. The final coat of paint made the walls look perfect.
fur	Refers to the thick and soft hair covering the bodies of certain animals, or items of clothing made from this material. It often has connotations related to luxury or warmth. The cat has a very soft fur. She wore a beautiful fur coat during the winter.
pelage	A technical term used primarily in zoology to describe the coat of hair, wool, or fur covering the body of a mammal. It is less commonly used in everyday conversation. The pelage of the Arctic fox is exceptionally thick and white during winter. Researchers studied the changes in the animal's pelage through the seasons.
hide	Used to indicate the skin of an animal, especially when it is intact and used for leather. It can also carry an implication of something being concealed or camouflaged. The cowboy's boots were made from cowhide. The deer used its surroundings to hide from predators.

Examples of usage

The cat's coat was soft and shiny.
Polar bears have a thick coat to keep them warm in the cold climate.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

covering

To cover or provide with a coat.

Synonyms

cover, layer, paint.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
coat	Typically used to describe the application of a substance, such as paint, to the surface of an object in a single layer. Apply a coat of paint to the wall for a fresh look. The table needs another coat of varnish to be completely sealed.
cover	Used when something needs to be placed over something else to protect or hide it. Make sure to cover the food with a lid to keep it warm. She used a blanket to cover herself.
paint	Specifically refers to the colored liquid applied with brushes or rollers to surfaces to decorate or protect them. It's time to paint the living room walls. He spilled some paint on his clothes.
layer	Refers to multiple levels or sheets placed on top of each other. You need to layer the cake with cream and fruits. She wore multiple layers of clothing to stay warm in the cold weather.

Examples of usage

He coated the metal with a layer of paint.
The chocolate is coated with a thin layer of sugar.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'coat' comes from the Old French term 'cote', which means a covering or garment.
It has connections to the Latin word 'cotta', which refers to a short, hooded garment worn by early Christians.

Historical Origins

Throughout history, coats have been used as symbols of social status, with different styles indicating wealth or occupation.
In medieval times, coats often distinguished knights and nobility, with elaborate designs for special occasions.

Fashion and Culture

The trench coat, developed during World War I, became a fashion staple and is associated with spies and sophistication.
Different cultures have unique styles of coats, such as the kimono in Japan or the poncho in South America.

Science

Coats can be made from various materials, including wool, cotton, and synthetic fibers, each offering different warmth and waterproof properties.
The design and insulation of coats play a crucial role in thermoregulation, helping to maintain body temperature in varying climates.

Psychology

Wearing a certain type of coat can influence how others perceive us, affecting social interactions and first impressions.
Researchers have found that the color of a coat can affect mood; for instance, wearing bright colors can enhance feelings of happiness.

Translations

Translations of the word "coat" in other languages:

🇵🇹 casaco

🇮🇳 कोट

🇩🇪 Mantel

🇮🇩 mantel

🇺🇦 пальто

🇵🇱 płaszcz

🇯🇵 コート

🇫🇷 manteau

🇪🇸 abrigo

🇹🇷 palto

🇰🇷 코트

🇸🇦 معطف

🇨🇿 kabát

🇸🇰 kabát

🇨🇳 外套

🇸🇮 plašč

🇮🇸 kápa

🇰🇿 пальто

🇬🇪 პალტო

🇦🇿 palto

🇲🇽 abrigo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,405, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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3402 infant
3403 tubes
3404 replace
3405 coat
3406 manufactured
3407 organs
3408 finish
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