Definition

Noun: 1. A waterproof fabric: A type of cloth, typically cotton, that has been treated with oil and pigment to make it water-resistant. 2. A waterproof garment: A coat, jacket, or other outer garment made from this fabric, designed to protect the wearer from rain.

Usage

"Oilskin" is an uncountable noun when referring to the fabric itself. It is a countable noun when referring to a specific garment. * You can say: "He wore an oilskin." (referring to a coat) * You can say: "The coat is made of oilskin." (referring to the material)

Examples

• The fisherman's oilskin kept him dry during the storm.
• Traditional oilskin is heavy but very effective against wind and rain.
• She put on her yellow oilskin before going out into the downpour.

Advanced Usage

• "Oilskins" (plural): Often used to refer to a full set of waterproof clothing, including trousers (pants) and a jacket or coat.
  • The crew donned their oilskins as the weather turned rough.

Variants and Related Words

• Oilskin coat/jacket: A more specific term for the garment.
• Slicker: A synonym, especially in American English, for a short oilskin raincoat.
• Foul-weather gear: A broader term for waterproof clothing, which includes oilskins.

Synonyms

• Waterproof
• Raincoat
• Mackintosh (or mac)
• Slicker

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Dressed in oilskins": Describes someone wearing full waterproof clothing, typically for work at sea or in very wet conditions.
  • The lifeboat crew were all dressed in oilskins.

Noun

1. a macintosh made from cotton fabric treated with oil and pigment to make it waterproof