The phrase "one's short coat" is an idiomatic expression that means one's current or recent position, rank, status, or role. It can also refer to a person's present circumstances or situation. The origin of this phrase lies in the military where junior officers wore shorter coats than their senior counterparts, thus indicating their lower rank. In modern usage, however, it is used more broadly to describe anyone who holds a relatively low-ranking position within an organization or hierarchy.