The word "windbreakers" has a peculiar spelling with a silent "d". It is pronounced as /wɪndbreɪkərz/. The phonetic transcription shows that the pronunciation starts with a short "i" sound followed by the "nd" consonant cluster. The stress is on the second syllable, which is marked with a long "a" sound. The final "s" is pronounced like a "z" sound. Windbreakers are jackets designed to protect against the wind, often made with lightweight and water-resistant materials. Despite their practical use, the spelling of the word can be tricky for many people.
Windbreakers are a type of lightweight outerwear garment that is designed to protect the wearer from wind and light rain. They are typically made from a thin, breathable fabric that offers resistance against wind, while also allowing moisture to evaporate, thus preventing the wearer from overheating. Windbreakers often feature an adjustable hood and elasticized cuffs to help seal out drafts.
The primary purpose of windbreakers is to provide insulation against wind chill, making them particularly useful during outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and running. Their lightweight and packable nature make them highly convenient to carry, as they can be easily folded and stored in a bag when not in use. Windbreakers are commonly worn as outer layers or as a mid-layer under heavier jackets in colder weather.
While windbreakers offer some water resistance, they are not designed to be fully waterproof, and therefore their effectiveness in heavy rainfall may be limited. However, they are ideal for light drizzles or brief showers.
With their sleek and sporty design, windbreakers have also become a popular fashion choice. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, often featuring zippers or snap-button closures, multiple pockets, and adjustable drawstrings. Windbreakers are widely considered to be versatile, practical, and fashionable garments suitable for both outdoor activities and everyday wear.
The term "windbreaker" originated in the late 19th century and is a compound word formed by combining the words "wind" and "breaker".
The word "wind" comes from the Old English word "wind", which has Germanic origins and is related to the Old High German word "wint" and the Dutch word "wind". It ultimately traces back to the Proto-Germanic word "*wendas" meaning "winding, turning".
The word "breaker" comes from the Middle English word "breker", which is derived from the Old English word "brecan" meaning "to break". In this context, "breaker" refers to something that breaks or blocks the wind.
Therefore, the term "windbreaker" can be interpreted as a garment that breaks or blocks the wind, providing protection from its force or gusts.