anoraks
|an-o-raks|
/ˈæn.ə.ræk/
(anorak)
hooded windproof coat; obsessive enthusiast
Etymology
'anorak' originates from Greenlandic (Inuit), specifically the word 'anoraq', where it referred to a type of hooded parka or coat.
'anorak' passed into European languages (via Danish/Norwegian from Greenlandic 'anoraq') and was borrowed into English in the 20th century as 'anorak'.
Initially, it meant 'a hooded jacket used by Arctic peoples', but over time it expanded to mean 'a general hooded jacket' and (in British informal usage) also 'a person obsessed with niche hobbies'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a hooded, often waterproof or windproof jacket (originally worn in Arctic regions).
They handed out lightweight anoraks to all the hikers.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/18 22:22