Shirtwaister for Dummies

Teacher: Hey there! So, you want to know what the word "Shirtwaister" means, huh? Well, I'm here to help you understand it in the simplest way possible. Now, have you ever seen someone wearing a shirt? Of course, you have! Now, imagine that shirt being a little longer, reaching down to about the knees or even lower. That shirt that is longer, like a dress, but is still a shirt, that's what we call a "Shirtwaister."

Student: Wait, so it's like a shirt but it's longer? Why don't we just call it a dress then?

Teacher: Excellent observation! You're absolutely right. A "Shirtwaister" is indeed like a shirt that is longer, almost like a dress. But the reason we don't call it a dress is because a dress usually doesn't have buttons or a collar like a shirt does. A "Shirtwaister" is a special type of garment that has the characteristics of both a shirt and a dress, hence the name "Shirtwaister." It's sort of a combination, you see?

Student: Okay, I think I'm getting it. So, is that the only meaning of "Shirtwaister"?

Teacher: Great question! No, "Shirtwaister" can actually have another meaning as well. Now, imagine someone is involved in a long, challenging task that requires a lot of hard work and determination. Just like this person, imagine that they don't give up easily and keep going until they successfully complete the task. We can also call this person a "Shirtwaister." It's like saying they are persistent and work hard, just like how a "Shirtwaister" is a combination of a shirt and a dress. They are putting in their efforts and not giving up easily, just like a "Shirtwaister" carries the features of both a shirt and a dress. Does that make sense?

Student: Oh, I see now! So, it can refer to someone who works hard and doesn't give up, just like a "Shirtwaister" is a combination of a shirt and a dress. That's pretty cool!

Teacher: Absolutely! You've got it! I'm glad you find it cool. "Shirtwaister" has these two different meanings, which can be a bit tricky to understand at first, but you've grasped it really well. Just remember the two definitions - a longer shirt that resembles a dress and someone who perseveres and works hard. And if you ever come across the word "Shirtwaister" in the future, you'll know exactly what it means. Keep it up, you're doing great!