monkey jacket

noun

1. a short, close-fitting jacket or coat, formerly worn by sailors.

monkey jacket

noun

1. a short close-fitting jacket, esp a waist-length jacket similar to a mess jacket

Word History and Origins

Origin of monkey jacket¹

First recorded in 1820–30; so called from its resemblance to a jacket worn by an organ-grinder's monkey

Example Sentences

Be on hand, my young monkey jacket; I should hate to be turned out so early for nothing.

From Project Gutenberg

Soon a monkey-jacket mounted the side, and was beset by the captain and cabin people for news.

From Project Gutenberg

Pete was still in his stocking cap and Wellington boots, but he had a monkey-jacket over his blue guernsey.

From Project Gutenberg

The last monkey-jacket I had from you a week ago I am returning for alteration.

From Project Gutenberg

The fellow took a firm grip of my monkey-jacket, and I made for the door.

From Project Gutenberg