Crimean shirt

English

Etymology

So named as this style of shirt was used in the Crimean War (1853-1856).

Noun

Crimean shirt (plural Crimean shirts)

1. A wide, flannel, buttonless long-sleeved shirt with collar and V-neck formerly worn by labourers.
   • 1868 May 5, The Colonist, volume 1107, Nelson, [advertisement], page 1:

     But should forgotten be these names,
       In life's incessant round,
     One famous institution lives,
       The Crimean war did found.

     When stormy winter's frosts and snows
       Brought suffering on our men;
     Invention formed the CRIMEAN SHIRT,
       And made them warm again.