# Edwardian period a time in twentieth-century British history: the first decade of the century, when Edward VII, the eldest son of Queen Victoria, was king. The Edwardian period was known for elegance and luxury among the rich and powerful in Britain, but also for moral looseness and for a general failure to prepare for some of the challenges of the twentieth century—particularly World War I, which broke out four years after the death of King Edward. [Definition of Edwardians: . . . (characteristic of the Edwardian period) . . .] Edwardians: persons wearing clothes of Edwardian style; Teddy boys. The name comes from the costume (characteristic of the Edwardian period) that is, with variations, their uniform: tightly buttoned, knee-length coat with soft, black-velvet collar; double-breasted, pearl-gray waistcoat (vest); and tight trousers. See also Edwardian period and Teddy boy in this glossary.