Sam Browne belt

[ sam-broun ]

noun

1. a sword belt having a supporting strap over the right shoulder, formerly worn by officers in the U.S. Army, now sometimes worn as part of the uniform by police officers, guards, and army officers in other nations.

Sam Browne belt

noun

1. a military officer's wide belt supported by a strap passing from the left side of the belt over the right shoulder

Word History and Origins

Origin of Sam Browne belt¹

First recorded in 1910–15; named after its inventor, British general Samuel Browne (1824–1901)

Word History and Origins

Origin of Sam Browne belt¹

C20: named after Sir Samuel J. Browne (1824–1901), British general, who devised such a belt

Example Sentences

One photo in his collection shows him as a saluting soldier in uniform that included a white ascot and gloves and gleaming Sam Browne belt.

From Washington Times

Every bit of really first-grade leather was taken for officers’ boots and for Sam Browne belts.

From Literature

The upgraded uniform includes gold stripes on the pants and a Sam Browne belt, its diagonal strap slung from shoulder to hip, in patent leather.

From New York Times

Then he turned out the lights, took off his tunic, opened his shirt collar, and put the Sam Browne belt with the hidden pockets on the bed beside him.

From Project Gutenberg

The service uniform blouse is sometimes worn with a Sam Browne belt.

From Project Gutenberg