Rainjackets

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Garments designed to repel precipitation and keep the wearer dry during rain; outerwear made from waterproof or water-resistant materials intended for protection against wet weather; protective clothing worn over regular attire to shield from rain and moisture
2. Clothing items crafted to provide a barrier against rainfall, typically constructed from synthetic or treated fabrics; waterproof coats or jackets used to prevent water penetration and maintain dryness; outer layers worn specifically for shielding oneself from rainy conditions
3. Waterproof or water-repellent upper body coverings used during wet weather to avoid getting soaked; rainproof apparel often featuring hoods and sealed seams to block out water; specialized jackets functioning as protective gear against rain and dampness

Etymology: "Rainjackets" is simply the plural of "rainjacket", so the real story is in its two parts. "Rain" comes from Old English "regen", and "jacket" entered English from Old French "jaquette", a diminutive of "jaque", a short tunic or sleeveless coat. Joined together, the compound describes a jacket meant to keep off the weather, and the form follows the ordinary English pattern of putting one noun in front of another to name a kind of thing, much like "raincoat" or "rainfall".