top-coat
Definition
- Noun:
- An overcoat: "top-coat" refers to a lightweight overcoat worn over a suit or other clothing, typically for protection against moderate weather.
- A final layer of paint: In painting, "top-coat" is the final layer of paint or varnish applied to a surface to provide protection and a finished appearance.
Usage Examples
Overcoat:
- He wore a stylish top-coat over his business suit to the meeting. (A lightweight overcoat for formal or everyday wear.)
- The top-coat kept her warm without being too heavy. (An overcoat for mild weather.)
Paint layer:
- After the primer dried, she applied a top-coat of glossy white paint. (The final layer of paint.)
- The top-coat protects the wood from scratches and moisture. (A protective final coating.)
Advanced Usage
"to wear a top-coat": to have a top-coat garment on.
- It was chilly, so she decided to wear her top-coat. (She put on her lightweight overcoat.)
"top-coat of paint": the outermost layer of paint on a surface.
- The top-coat of paint gives the car its shiny finish. (The final layer that provides appearance and protection.)
Variants and Related Words
Topcoat (n): a variant spelling of "top-coat," meaning the same garment or paint layer.
- He left his topcoat in the car. (Same as top-coat.)
Overcoat (n): a heavier, longer coat worn over other clothing in cold weather (distinct from top-coat, which is lighter).
- She wore a wool overcoat in the snow. (A heavy coat.)
Synonyms
- Overcoat: a coat worn over other clothes (often heavier than a top-coat).
- Jacket: a shorter, lighter garment (less formal than a top-coat).
Related Idioms
"Top-coat and tails": a phrase referring to formal evening wear, including a top-coat and a tailcoat.
- The guests arrived in top-coat and tails for the gala. (Formal attire.)
"Put the top-coat on": to apply the final layer of paint or finish.
- After the base coat dries, put the top-coat on for a smooth result. (Apply the final paint layer.)