surcoat

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   historical: a loose sleeveless garment worn over armour, often displaying heraldic colours or arms

   The knight's surcoat bore a silver lion on a field of blue.

2. 2
   noun

   historical: an outer garment worn over a gown, tunic, or other clothing by either women or men

   Her embroidered surcoat opened at the sides to reveal the silk gown beneath.

From Middle English surcote and Old French surcote, formed from sur, 'over,' + cote, 'coat or tunic.' The garment was literally a coat worn over armour or another layer of dress.

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