vest-pocket

A man keeps his small vest-pocket camera in his jacket.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Small enough to fit in a vest pocket: "vest-pocket" describes something that is very small, compact, or portable, typically referring to objects designed to be carried easily.
   • Diminutive or miniature: Used figuratively to describe something of small scale or limited scope.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • He carried a vest-pocket camera on his travels. (A very small camera designed to fit in a pocket.)
  • The company published a vest-pocket dictionary for quick reference. (A miniature dictionary meant for portability.)

Advanced Usage

• "Vest-pocket edition": A very small, abridged version of a book or publication.

  • She bought a vest-pocket edition of Shakespeare's sonnets. (A tiny book that fits in a vest pocket.)

• "Vest-pocket park": A very small public park, often in a densely built-up urban area.

  • The city created a vest-pocket park on the vacant lot. (A miniature park for local residents.)

Variants and Related Words

• Vest (n): a sleeveless garment worn over a shirt, often with pockets.
• Pocket (n): a small bag sewn into clothing for carrying items.
• Pocket-sized (adj): small enough to fit in a pocket; similar meaning to "vest-pocket."
  • The device is pocket-sized and easy to carry.

Synonyms

• Compact: closely and neatly packed together; small in size.
• Miniature: much smaller than normal; very small.
• Portable: easily carried or moved.
• Pocketable: small enough to be carried in a pocket.

Related Idioms

• "In one's vest pocket": under one's control or influence; easily managed.

  • The politician had the local press in his vest pocket. (He controlled or influenced them completely.)

• "Keep something in one's vest pocket": to keep something close at hand for quick use.

  • He always kept a pen in his vest pocket. (He carried it for immediate use.)

Phrasal Verbs

• (None directly associated with "vest-pocket" as an adjective; the compound is not used as a verb.)