Definition of "doublet"

The doublet generally used is that invented by Dr. Wollaston, and consists of two plano-convex lenses placed with their convex sides towards the eye […]

1855, Hermann Schacht, Frederick Currey, The Microscope

I must comfort the weaker vessel, asdoublet and hose ought to show itself courageous to petticoat […]

c. 1598–1600 (date written), William Shakespeare, “As You Like It”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, [Act II, scene iv], lines 726-27

Expression is the dress of thought, and stillAppears more decent, as more suitable;A vile conceit in pompous words express'd,Is like a clown in regal purple dress'd: […] These sparks with awkward vanity displayWhat the fine gentleman wore yesterday;And but so mimic ancient wits at best,As apes our grandsires, in their doublets drest.

1709, [Alexander Pope], An Essay on Criticism, London: […] W. Lewis […], published 1711, lines 316-19, 327-30

Lord Hamlet, with his doublet all unbraced […]

c. 1599–1602 (date written), William Shakespeare, “The Tragedie of Hamlet, Prince of Denmarke”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, [Act II, scene i], line 75

He was a stout old gentleman, with a weather-beaten countenance; he wore a laced doublet, broad belt and hanger, high-crowned hat and feather, red stockings, and high-heeled shoes, with roses in them.

1819, Washington Irving, The Sketch Book, Rip Van Winkle