Cape: meaning, definitions and examples

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cape

 

[ keɪp ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

worn as a garment

A sleeveless outer garment fastened at the front and draped loosely over the shoulders.

Synonyms

cloak, mantle, shawl.

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Word Description / Examples
cape

A cape is often worn as a fashion statement or part of a costume, typically fastened at the neck and draping over the shoulders and back.

  • The superhero's cape fluttered in the wind.
  • At the fancy dress party, she chose a red cape to complement her outfit.
cloak

A cloak provides full-body coverage and is often associated with historical or fantasy settings, offering warmth and protection.

  • The wizard wrapped his cloak tightly around him as he ventured into the dark forest.
  • In medieval times, travelers wore heavy cloaks to shield themselves from the elements.
mantle

A mantle is a kind of cloak or covering that can refer to both garments and symbolic responsibilities or roles.

  • She inherited her grandmother's old mantle, which she wore during the cold months.
  • The new leader took up the mantle of responsibility with great seriousness.
shawl

A shawl is a lightweight piece of fabric, often used by women, draped over the shoulders, head, or around the neck for warmth or modesty.

  • She covered her shoulders with a delicate lace shawl.
  • Grandmother always wore a warm shawl when sitting by the fireplace.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a red cape to the party.
  • The superhero's cape billowed in the wind as he flew through the sky.
Context #2 | Noun

geographical feature

A point or head of land projecting into a body of water.

Synonyms

headland, point, promontory.

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Word Description / Examples
cape

This word is often used to describe a large, extended piece of land that sticks out into the sea, usually characterized by dramatic scenery. It can be commonly found in names of geographical locations.

  • The ship navigated around Cape Horn.
  • Cape Town is located on the Cape of Good Hope.
headland

Frequently used in coastal geography, 'headland' refers to a high point of land with a steep drop, typically forming part of the coastline. It is often used in contexts related to coastal features and hiking trails.

  • We reached the headland and enjoyed a spectacular view of the sea.
  • The lighthouse is perched on a rugged headland.
promontory

Used in a more formal or literary context, 'promontory' denotes a high, prominent point of land that juts out into a body of water. It is often used to emphasize the dramatic or imposing nature of the landform.

  • The castle was situated on a rocky promontory, overlooking the ocean.
  • They stood on the windy promontory, gazing out at the horizon.
point

This term is commonly used to indicate a specific pointed piece of land that extends into the water, less grand than a cape. It is often used in navigation and in the naming of specific locations.

  • Sailors avoided the point due to dangerous rocks.
  • Let's head to the point for a better view of the sunset.

Examples of usage

  • The lighthouse was built on the cape to guide ships safely into the harbor.
  • We hiked to the top of the cape to enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean.
Context #3 | Verb

cover or connect with a cape

To cover or provide with a cape or capes.

Synonyms

cover, drape, wrap.

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Word Description / Examples
cape

A headland or a point of land extending into a body of water, often used in geographical contexts.

  • The ship sailed around the rocky cape.
  • Cape Cod is a popular summer destination.
cover

To place something over or upon, as for protection, concealment, or warmth.

  • She used a blanket to cover herself.
  • The police officer took cover behind the car.
wrap

To fold or enclose an object in something, often for protection, warmth, or gift-giving.

  • She wrapped the gift in colorful paper.
  • He wrapped a towel around his waist.
drape

To hang cloth loosely and gracefully, or to arrange a piece of fabric decoratively.

  • She draped the scarf elegantly around her shoulders.
  • The artist draped the fabric to create a beautiful backdrop.

Examples of usage

  • The designer decided to cape the dress for a more elegant look.
  • The table was caped with a beautiful tablecloth for the dinner party.

Translations

Translations of the word "cape" in other languages:

🇵🇹 capa

🇮🇳 केप

🇩🇪 Umhang

🇮🇩 jubah

🇺🇦 плащ

🇵🇱 peleryna

🇯🇵 ケープ

🇫🇷 cape

🇪🇸 capa

🇹🇷 pelerin

🇰🇷 망토

🇸🇦 عباءة

🇨🇿 plášť

🇸🇰 plášť

🇨🇳 斗篷

🇸🇮 plašč

🇮🇸 kápa

🇰🇿 мантия

🇬🇪 ქუდი

🇦🇿 pelerin

🇲🇽 capa

Etymology

The word 'cape' originated from the Latin word 'cappa', which referred to a hooded cloak or cape worn by monks. Over time, the term evolved to describe a variety of outer garments worn for protection or fashion. In geography, 'cape' was used to denote a prominent headland or point of land extending into a body of water. The versatile nature of the word allows it to be used in various contexts, from fashion to geography.

See also: cap, capable, capacity, caplet, caps, capstone, recap.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,284, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.