Raglan

Part of speech: noun, adjective

Definitions

1. A style of sleeve extending in one piece fully to the collar, allowing ease of movement and a diagonal seam from underarm to neckline ; a garment design featuring a sleeve that joins the body with a slanting seam for comfort and mobility ; a clothing cut where the sleeve stretches to the collar, distinguished by a seamless shoulder line for added flexibility
2. A type of sleeve that tapers from the armhole to the neckline, named for its unique diagonal seam ; a method of constructing garments where the sleeve is attached to form a continuous line with the shoulder ; a fashion detail characterized by a smooth, raglan-cut sleeve promoting unrestrictive arm motion
3. A loose-fitting sleeve configuration that runs from the underarm to the collar, providing a casual and sporty appearance ; an apparel element designed for enhanced range of motion through an extended shoulder seam ; a distinct sleeve style widely used in outerwear and sports clothing for its practical and aesthetic qualities

Etymology: Lord Raglan, FitzRoy James Henry Somerset, 4th Baron Raglan (1788–1855), was a British army commander whose career was largely spent in the field and in administration, yet his name ended up on a sleeve. He commanded British forces in the Crimean War, where he led the army in the early campaigns against Russia, and the garment bearing his name is named after him. The sleeve is cut so that the seam runs diagonally from the underarm up to the collar rather than joining at the shoulder. That diagonal seam gives the wearer freedom of movement across the upper body, which is why the design became popular in coats and sportswear. The word is used both as a noun for the sleeve and, in adjective form, for garments cut this way.

Synonyms: sleeve style