trench coat

American  

noun

• trench coats
  plural

1. a waterproof overcoat styled along military lines, belted, with straps on the shoulders and lower sleeves.

---

trench coat British  

noun

1. a belted double-breasted waterproof coat of gabardine, etc, resembling a military officer's coat

---

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• trench coats
  plural

Etymology

Origin of trench coat

First recorded in 1915–20

Compare meaning

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

• trench coat vs. overcoat

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

trench coat

After years of unsuccessful makeover attempts by previous management teams, the British luxury trench coat brand appears to be turning a corner and increased sales by 4% over the three months through June.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 17, 2026

To my chagrin but not my surprise, no one else in the theater came with their tail tucked between their legs, covered by a trench coat.

From Salon ● Apr. 25, 2026

If he goes full trench coat, like Neo in The Matrix, consider taking profits.

From Barron's ● Mar. 13, 2026

Chances are you’ve seen Snoopy dressed as Doggy Pawsbourne on your Instagram or TikTok feed, complete with Ozzy’s signature round sunglasses, long hair and trench coat, punctuating the Prince of Barkness’ “Crazy Train” entrance.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 13, 2026

There is a book in the pocket of the trench coat, a copy of The Comedians by Graham Greene, with yellow pages and tiny print.

From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri

Related Words

• overcoat
• slicker