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Definition of coattail

coattail

/ˈkoʊt.teɪl/
coat · tail
Plural:coattails
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coattail Lexical Profile

coattail Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The power of a popular leader, prominent figure, or political candidate to attract support, votes, or success for others associated with them (usually used in the plural).

Example

"Several lesser-known congressional candidates rode into office on the popular governor's coattails."

2

Either of the two rear flaps formed by the vertical division at the back of the skirt of a formal coat or tailcoat.

Example

"The conductor adjusted his coattails before stepping onto the podium to lead the orchestra."

Word Nuance & Usage

The word is almost always used in the plural ('coattails'), especially in the figurative idiom 'to ride on someone's coattails,' meaning to achieve success through association with another person's popularity or achievements. In politics, it frequently appears as a noun adjunct in 'coattail effect.'

• Rhymes for coattail

• Nearby Words

coatrack
coatroom
coatstand
coattail
coattails
coauthor
coauthorship

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Coattail. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/coattail
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