Sweater, n.: garment worn by child when its mother is feeling chilly.

In this quote, Ambrose Bierce, an American writer and satirist, humorously defines the word "sweater" with a bit of cynicism and wit. He describes it as a "garment worn by child when its mother is feeling chilly," suggesting that the sweater is less about the child's need for warmth and more about the mother's desire to make sure the child is properly dressed when she herself is cold. This playful twist on the definition mocks the idea that parents sometimes dress their children more for their own comfort or convenience than for the actual needs of the child.

Bierce’s definition highlights the irony in many everyday situations, especially in how we relate to others' needs and desires. The quote humorously implies that the act of giving a child a sweater may be more about the mother's perception of the child’s needs than the child’s actual comfort. The use of "garment" here isn't just about clothing, but about a broader commentary on how adults sometimes project their own feelings onto others, especially their children.

The style of humor Bierce uses is consistent with his satirical writing, often found in his work "The Devil's Dictionary," where he redefines common terms with sharp, often ironic, observations about human nature. By redefining a simple word like sweater in such a clever way, Bierce encourages readers to question the motives behind everyday actions and recognize the subtle humor in daily life.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a commentary on human behavior, particularly the way in which we sometimes act out of self-interest or habitual behavior rather than true necessity. Bierce's humor shines through as he uses a simple object—a sweater—to provoke thought about the often ironic dynamics between parents and children.