ENGLISH
REFERENCE

inverness

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈɪnvɝˌnɛs// in·ver·ness

n. a long, loose coat without sleeves that has a short cape over the shoulders. It was very popular in the late 1800s and is often seen in old detective stories.

n. a sleeveless overcoat featuring a short, integrated cape that covers the shoulders and arms. Historically associated with Victorian outerwear and formal evening dress.


SIMPLE

He wore a heavy woollen inverness to protect himself from the rain.

CONTEXTUAL

The detective in the illustration is instantly recognisable by his deerstalker hat and long inverness cape.

COMPLEX

While modern fashion has largely moved toward fitted jackets, the inverness remains a staple of traditional Highland dress, providing freedom of movement for the arms while keeping the torso dry.

Origin

From Inver- + Ness, from the River Ness.

Usage

Often referred to as an 'inverness cape' or 'inverness coat'.

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