turtleneck

UK: ˈtɜːtlnek | US: ˈtɜːrtlnek

Definition

  1. n. a high, close-fitting collar that folds over and covers the neck, typically part of a sweater or shirt.

  2. n. a garment (e.g., a sweater) featuring such a collar.

Structure
turtle <tortoise>neck <body part>
Etymology

The term "turtleneck" emerged in the late 19th century, humorously comparing the garment's high, foldable collar to a turtle's ability to pull its head into its shell. The visual analogy made the word intuitive and memorable.

Examples

  1. She wore a black turtleneck to stay warm in the chilly office.

  2. His turtleneck was so tight it barely allowed him to move his head.

  3. Turtlenecks became fashionable among artists in the 1960s.

  4. The detective’s signature look included a gray turtleneck and a trench coat.

  5. I prefer turtlenecks over scarves because they’re less fussy.