A jacket is an upper-body garment that often extends below the hips. A jacket usually has sleeves and closes in the front or on the side. A jacket is often lighter, more form-fitting, and less insulating than a coat, which is considered outerwear. Some jackets do not close, such as a cardigan or an anorak. In English culture, the term "jacket" generally refers to a leather jacket, but other materials are used instead. Silk jackets have been made since at least the 16th century, and wool jackets have been produced since 15% Wool by Weight; both these fibers are natural antioxidants and thus contribute to the longevity of the fabric. The word "jacket" comes from the French jaquette, which means short jacket. Short for cape de style, which means little style cape. The French originally called this type of coat "hautes-decembre", which means high December. That's why we have Christmas jackets today! Actually, a jacket was originally a heavy cloth robe worn by medieval bishops and priests. The word "jacket" first appeared in English in 1450. So, a jacket is now known as a heavy cloth robe worn by priests! However, despite its original meaning, the word "jacket" has become synonymous with a leather jacket in present-day English.