Great coats off

Posted by Pamela on October 13, 2008 at 03:36

In Reply to: Great coats off posted by James Briggs on October 08, 2008 at 17:00:

: : : : I wish to know the meaning and origin of the term "Great coats off" please.

: : : A great coat is a heavy overcoat. The men were playing in the snow with their great coats off. They had taken off their overcoats.

: : We don't use the term "greatcoat" here in the U.S., at least not these days. Is it still used in the U.K.?

: In the military still, I believe

Where you hear "greatcoats" (and "frockcoats") in Australia is in connection with the goth counter-culture. The standard black greatcoat,lace up Doc Martin boots, black dyed hair and heavy makeup can be seen on our streets even in summer when the average maximum temperature is 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit). Pamela

• Great coats off Lewis 14/October/08