English Reference

Word

overcoat

Phoneticsover·coat

US/ˈoʊvɝˌkoʊt/

UK/ˈəʊvəkˌəʊt/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a long, warm coat that you wear over other clothes when it is very cold. It is usually made of thick material like wool or cotton.

n. a long, heavy coat worn for warmth and protection against the weather. Typically made of wool, flannel, or heavy cotton, it is worn over other garments.

Examples

“He put on his heavy overcoat before going outside.”

“The tailor spent the entire afternoon adjusting the sleeves of the wool overcoat to ensure a perfect fit.”

“While modern fashion often prioritizes lightweight fabrics, the traditional overcoat remains a staple of winter wardrobes for its superior insulation and classic silhouette.”

Examples

simple

“He put on his heavy overcoat before going outside.”

contextual

“The tailor spent the entire afternoon adjusting the sleeves of the wool overcoat to ensure a perfect fit.”

complex

“While modern fashion often prioritizes lightweight fabrics, the traditional overcoat remains a staple of winter wardrobes for its superior insulation and classic silhouette.”

Etymology

From over- + coat.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference