An apron is an outer protective garment that covers primarily
the front of the body. It may be worn for hygienic reasons as well as in order
to protect clothes from wear and tear. The apron is commonly part of the
uniform of several work categories, including waitresses, nurses, and domestic
workers. Many homemakers also wear them. It is also worn as a decorative
garment by women. Aprons are also worn in many commercial establishments to
protect workers clothes from damage, mainly bib aprons, but also others such as
blacksmith or farrier aprons. In addition to cloth, aprons can be made from a
variety of materials. Rubber aprons are commonly used by persons working with
dangerous chemicals, and lead aprons are commonly worn by persons such as X-ray
technicians who work near radiation. Aprons, such as those used by carpenters,
may have many pockets to hold tools. Waterproof household aprons, made of
oilcloth or PVC are suitable for cooking and washing dishes. The word apron is
from the metanalysis of the term "a napron" to "an apron".
The original spelling of napron has been lost.
