Pronunciation: [spˈɛnsə] (IPA) 
The word "spencer" is spelled /ˈspɛnsər/. The first syllable is pronounced with an unstressed "e" sound and the "s" is pronounced with a "z" sound. The second syllable contains a stressed "e" sound and an "n" that is pronounced with a nasal sound. Lastly, the final syllable contains an unstressed "ər" sound. "Spencer" refers to a type of jacket that was popularized in the 18th century, which was named after the Earl of Spencer.
Spencer is a noun that refers to several objects or individuals, each with distinct meanings.
One common definition of spencer is a type of short, waist-length jacket that was popular in the early 19th century. This garment typically has long sleeves and is fitted to the body, often worn by women over a dress or blouse. It is named after George Spencer, 2nd Earl Spencer, who supposedly wore a similar jacket during the late 18th century.
Spencer may also refer to a surname, derived from the English word "dispenser," originally meaning a person who dispensed provisions or managed a household. This surname has historical significance, especially linked to the aristocratic British Spencer family, known for their close relationship to the British royal family, including Princess Diana.
In a different context, Spencer can also signify a given name for boys, derived from the surname. It has been a popular choice for parents in English-speaking countries.
Lastly, there is another use of the term "spencer" in the context of firearms. A Spencer is a type of lever-action rifle or carbine invented by Christopher Spencer during the American Civil War. This firearm was innovative for its time, as it used a tubular magazine to hold metallic cartridges, allowing for quicker reloading.
A short over-jacket, worn either by men or women.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "spencer" originates from the surname "Spencer". It was initially an occupational name for someone who worked as a steward or dispenser of supplies in a noble household. The surname "Spencer" is derived from the Old French word "despense", meaning "pantry" or "storeroom". Over time, the term "spencer" transformed into a noun, referring to a type of short, close-fitting jacket that was typically worn by men in the 19th century. The jacket was believed to have been named after a George Spencer, 2nd Earl Spencer, who was known for popularizing the style.
