short, close- or loose-fitting, trunk-covering or sleeved garment, which has fastening at the front and reaches to or beyond the waist. Can be of single- or double-breased cut. A trunk-covering w. is sleeveless and typically without lapels, and is part of a men' suit. Its frontpiece is produced from the same fabric as the rest of the suit, its backpiece from a lining. The sleeved w. has sleeves and usually lapels; it is a separate item of sports- or workwear, and is worn in place of a jacket. It has its origins in the Thirty Years' War, at which time it had sleeves. It became sleeveless and tail-less in the 18th century, when it attained its current form. Was produced in luxury, richly embroidered fabrics.