Combies

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A term referring to people wearing or associated with a type of practical one-piece clothing; individuals who typically dress in functional attire for work; or those who identify with a particular utilitarian style
2. Used to describe wearers of a full-body work garment; people who are commonly seen in durable utility outfits; or those linked to practical, industrial fashion
3. Indicates individuals outfitted in coverall-style apparel; those who are characterized by their use of work uniforms; or members of a group distinguished by ergonomic clothing

Etymology: "Combies" is the plural of "combi," a clipping of "combination." The clipped form is what gives the word its distinctive shape: rather than spelling out the full term, speakers cut it down to its first syllables and added a "-ie" ending, a pattern common in informal British English for nicknames and casual shorthand. Because "combi" trims "combination," the core idea of the original word survives in the clipped version. The noun "combies" therefore refers to people who wear combination-style garments, namely coveralls, which are single-piece outfits combining a top and trousers. The plural simply applies the clipped word to a group of such wearers.

Synonyms: minibuses, vans, shuttles