The term “coveralls” is a compound word that very literally describes what the garment does: it covers all of your clothes.
Here’s a breakdown of the name and its history:
1. The Literal Meaning: “Cover-All”
The word is a combination of “cover” and “all.”
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Cover: The primary function of the garment is to cover and protect the wearer’s regular clothing from dirt, grime, chemicals, grease, and other hazards encountered in work environments.
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All: It does this coverage for all of the body (from wrists to ankles) in a single garment. Unlike a simple apron that just covers the front, coveralls are a full-body suit.
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2. Historical Context and Evolution
The term emerged in the early 20th century, alongside the rise of industrial manufacturing, automotive repair, and large-scale agriculture. Workers needed durable, full-coverage protection that was easy to put on and take off.
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Predecessors: Before coveralls, workers might have worn separate shirts and pants made of heavy denim or canvas, but these didn’t offer the same level of full-body protection against liquids or fine dust.
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Utility: The one-piece design was practical. It eliminated gaps at the waist where debris could get in, offered a more secure fit, and often featured large pockets for tools. By covering “all” of a worker’s street clothes, it allowed them to work in messy environments without ruining their personal attire.
3. Differentiation from “Overalls”
This is a common point of confusion, but the names hint at the difference:
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Overalls: Traditionally, overalls are trousers with a bib and shoulder straps. They are designed to be worn over other pants or clothing, but they only cover the lower half and torso, not the arms.
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Coveralls: As the name implies, coveralls are a full one-piece suit that includes sleeves and full leg coverings. They are intended to cover all of the body and are often worn as the primary garment, not just an overlay.
Summary:
In short, coveralls are called that because they are a utilitarian one-piece garment designed to cover all of a person’s body and clothing to protect them from workplace hazards.
The name is a perfect example of functional, straightforward naming based on the purpose of the item.
