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Shirtsleeve - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A shirtsleeve is the part of a shirt that covers the arm. The term can also describe a casual or informal situation, as in shirtsleeve weather or shirtsleeve diplomacy.

shirtsleeve

/ˈʃɝtˌsliv/ /ˈʃɜːtˌsliːv/

Definition:

The sleeve of a shirt, or the state of wearing no jacket over one's shirt.

Synonyms:

sleeve, arm cover, shirt arm

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

jacket sleeve, coat sleeve

Common Collocations:

rolled-up shirtsleeve, short shirtsleeve, long shirtsleeve

Derivatives:

shirtsleeved, shirtsleeves

Usage Tips:

Use "shirtsleeve" to describe casual attire or literal shirt sleeves; avoid confusion with "sleeveless."

Common Phrases:

in one's shirtsleeves, roll up one's shirtsleeves, work in shirtsleeves

Etymology:

Derived from "shirt" + "sleeve," originating from Old English "slyfe," meaning a garment covering the arm.

Examples:

  • 1. He rolled up his shirtsleeve before washing his hands.
  • 2. The office allows a shirtsleeve dress code in summer.
  • 3. She prefers short shirtsleeves for comfort in warm weather.
  • 4. He worked in his shirtsleeves despite the chilly breeze.

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