Definition

Noun: A formal, knee-length coat for men, characterized by a full, skirt-like lower section that hangs evenly around the knees, both at the front and back. It was a standard item of formal daywear for gentlemen during the 19th century.

Usage

The term "frock coat" specifically refers to this distinct historical garment. It is used to describe the coat itself or to evoke the fashion of its era. - It is typically worn as part of formal 19th-century attire. - It is often associated with historical figures, period dramas, and formal portraits from the 1800s.

Examples

• The gentleman wore a tailored black frock coat to the diplomatic reception.
• In the museum exhibit, a silk frock coat from the 1850s was displayed next to a top hat.
• His Victorian-era costume was completed by a charcoal grey frock coat.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The frock coat evolved from an informal "frock" and became increasingly formal throughout the 19th century, eventually being replaced by the morning coat and lounge suit.
• Distinguishing Feature: It is defined by its knee-length, straight-hanging "skirt," which differentiates it from shorter jackets or tailcoats (which have tails only at the back).

Variants and Related Words

• Frock: Historically, a loose, long-sleeved outer garment. The "frock coat" developed from this earlier, more general term.
• Morning Coat: A formal coat that succeeded the frock coat, characterized by a front that curves back to a single tail at the rear.
• Tailcoat (Tail Coat): A very formal evening coat with a short front and two long tails at the back.

Synonyms

• Prince Albert (coat): A specific style of frock coat, named after Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria.
• Knee-length coat: A descriptive, non-historical term for its length.

Antonyms / Contrasting Terms

• Sports Jacket: An informal, waist-length jacket.
• Lounge Suit Jacket: The standard, shorter jacket of modern business attire.

Related Phrases / Idioms

(No common idioms directly incorporate "frock coat." It primarily appears in descriptive or historical contexts.)

Noun

1. a man's coat having knee-length skirts front and back; worn in the 19th century