ENGLISH
REFERENCE

blazer

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈbɫeɪzɝ// UK //blˈeɪzɐ// blaz·er Archaic Slang

n. a type of jacket that looks like a suit coat but is more casual. You often wear it for school uniforms or smart-casual events.

n. a lightweight jacket resembling a suit coat but typically cut more casually and often featuring metal buttons. Frequently associated with school uniforms, sports clubs, or business-casual attire.


SIMPLE

He wore a navy blue blazer to the wedding.

CONTEXTUAL

The private school requires all students to wear a dark green blazer with the school crest on the pocket.

COMPLEX

While a full suit might be too formal for the evening reception, a well-tailored blazer paired with chinos strikes the perfect balance for a modern professional setting.

Origin

From blaze + -er. Originates from the 'blazing' scarlet jackets worn by members of Lady Margaret Boat Club, the rowing club associated with St. John's College, Cambridge. Compare Old English blæsere, blasere (“burner, incendiary”, literally “blazer”).

Usage

Often paired with the verb 'wear' or 'put on'.

© 2026 English Reference