What Does the “T” in T-Shirt Actually Mean?

laid flat with its sleeves extending outward, its body and sleeves roughly form the shape of a capital letter T.

The garment developed from underwear and undershirts worn around the beginning of the 20th century. Its simple construction, lightweight material, and lack of buttons made it practical, particularly as an undergarment and work shirt. Eventually, people began wearing these shirts by themselves rather than keeping them hidden beneath other clothing.

As the style became increasingly common, “T-shirt” became the natural description because of that recognizable T-shaped outline. What began as