weathercoat: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2formal, somewhat dated
Quick answer
What does “weathercoat” mean?
A coat designed to protect against rain, wind, and other harsh weather.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A coat designed to protect against rain, wind, and other harsh weather.
A protective overgarment, often waterproof or wind-resistant; sometimes used as a synonym for 'raincoat'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is rare in both dialects but is encountered slightly more often in British English. Americans would almost exclusively use 'raincoat'.
Connotations
British: Can sound slightly old-fashioned or literary. American: Sounds archaic or unfamiliar.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both. More likely found in older texts or specialized contexts (e.g., sailing, historical reenactment).
Grammar
How to Use “weathercoat” in a Sentence
wear a weathercoatput on one's weathercoata weathercoat of (material)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in historical business correspondence or in the context of manufacturing.
Academic
Occasional use in historical or cultural studies discussing clothing.
Everyday
Extremely rare. 'Raincoat' is the dominant everyday term.
Technical
Possible in historical texts on tailoring or outdoor gear specifications.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “weathercoat”
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “weathercoat”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “weathercoat”
- Using 'weathercoat' for a light jacket or fashionable coat. Using it in contemporary contexts where 'raincoat' is expected.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered dated. 'Raincoat', 'waterproof', or more specific terms like 'trench coat' or 'anorak' are used instead.
There is no significant difference in meaning; 'weathercoat' emphasizes general weather protection, while 'raincoat' specifies protection from rain. 'Raincoat' is the far more common term.
No, 'weathercoat' is not used as a verb in standard English.
It is historically English but is now equally rare in both British and American English. Its occasional appearance is slightly more likely in British contexts.
A coat designed to protect against rain, wind, and other harsh weather.
Weathercoat is usually formal, somewhat dated in register.
Weathercoat: in British English it is pronounced /ˈweðəˌkəʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈweðərˌkoʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms directly associated.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: WEATHER needs a COAT = weathercoat.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROTECTION IS A SHELL/SHIELD (the coat shields the wearer).
Practice
Quiz
Which term is the most common contemporary synonym for 'weathercoat'?