vest-pocket

See also: vestpocket

English

Alternative forms

• vestpocket

Etymology

From vest + pocket, referring to the pockets of a suit vest, which are only sized to hold watches, handkerchiefs, wallets, and similarly small items.

Adjective

vest-pocket (not comparable)

1. Small enough to be carried in a vest pocket or other small container.

   She carried a vest-pocket copy of the New Testament in her purse at all times.

2. (by extension) Smaller than would ordinarily be expected.

   Levi's apartment was a vest-pocket Graceland; every inch of wall and shelf space was covered by Elvis memorabilia.

Synonyms

• diminutive
• dwarf
• miniature
• pocket-size