n. A cloak of rough and heavy material, formerly worn by persons whose business led them to much exposure. The French tabard is described as being of serge. It was worn by the poorest classes of the populace.n. A loose outer garment without sleeves, or with short sleeves, worn by knights over their armor, generally but not always embroidered with the arms of the wearer, called cote-armour by Chaucer. Also called tabard of arms.n. A sort of coat without sleeves, or with short sleeves, worn by heralds and pursuivants, emblazoned with the arms of their sovereign, and considered as their distinctive garment.