topcoat

American  

[top-koht] / ˈtɒpˌkoʊt /

noun

1. a lightweight overcoat.

2. the coat of paint applied last to a surface.

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verb (used with object)

1. to apply the topcoat to (a surface).

topcoat British  

/ ˈtɒpˌkəʊt /

noun

1. an outdoor coat worn over a suit, etc

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Etymology

Origin of topcoat

First recorded in 1810–20; top ¹ + coat

Compare meaning

How does topcoat compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• topcoat vs. overcoat

Example Sentences

The passersby sporting timeless wool topcoats and carrying shopping bags.

From Los Angeles Times

I looked down and saw that the hand belonged to the quiet man in the dark topcoat.

From Literature

For both primer and topcoats, the process is similar.

From Washington Post

Some on Reddit fixed this by sanding theirs down to take the shine off of the finish, and another recommended using an acrylic topcoat and another chemical bluing.

From The Verge

Cobbling together a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle while in lockdown comes to mind, as does doing your nails — basecoat, color, topcoat.

From New York Times

Related Words

• cloak
• frock
• jacket
• overcoat
• raincoat
• suit
• tuxedo
• windbreaker
• wrap