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Cassock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cassock

[ˈkæsək ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

clothing

A long, close-fitting garment worn by members of certain religious orders or clerics.

Synonyms

habit, robe, vestment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cassock

Cassock is typically worn by clergy members, particularly in Christian denominations. It is a long garment that reaches the ankles.

  • The priest donned his cassock before the evening service.
  • During the procession, all the clergy members were in black cassocks.
robe

Robe is a more general term for a loose, flowing garment. It can be used in both religious and non-religious contexts.

  • The judge entered the courtroom wearing a black robe.
  • The wizard was known for his long, mystical robe.
habit

Habit refers to the distinctive clothing worn by members of religious orders, particularly monks and nuns. It's often a simple, modest garment symbolizing their dedication.

  • The nun wore her habit as a sign of her devotion.
  • Monks in the monastery dressed in their traditional habits.
vestment

Vestment is specifically used to describe the liturgical garments worn by clergy during worship services. These are often elaborate and symbolic.

  • The bishop wore a beautifully embroidered vestment for the Easter Mass.
  • The vestments were carefully prepared for the special ceremony.

Examples of usage

  • He wore a black cassock with a white clerical collar.
  • The priest's cassock billowed in the wind as he walked.
Context #2 | Noun

history

A close-fitting ankle-length garment with a single-breasted, button-down front, worn by men in the 18th century.

Synonyms

frock coat, tailcoat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cassock

A cassock is a long, close-fitting garment worn by members of the clergy. It is typically associated with religious ceremonies and everyday clerical duties.

  • The priest donned his black cassock before the evening service
  • During the prayer, all clergy members were dressed in white cassocks
frock coat

A frock coat is a formal coat that was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It is most appropriately worn in historical reenactments or formal events with a vintage or classical theme.

  • He wore a frock coat to the Victorian-themed ball
  • The museum guide greeted us in a frock coat to match the historical setting
tailcoat

A tailcoat is a very formal evening or full dress coat with the front cut away, leaving only the back to form tails. It is often worn at black-tie or white-tie events.

  • For the gala, he chose a classic black tailcoat
  • The orchestra conductor wore a tailcoat during the performance

Examples of usage

  • The historical reenactor was dressed in a period cassock.
  • The cassock was a popular choice of attire for gentlemen in the 1700s.

Translations

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Origin of 'cassock'

The word 'cassock' originated from the Middle French word 'casaque' meaning a long coat or cloak. It was later adopted into English in the 16th century. The cassock has been traditionally associated with religious attire, particularly in Christian denominations where it is worn by clergy members. Over time, the style and usage of the cassock have evolved, reflecting changes in fashion and religious practices. In the 18th century, the term also referred to a specific type of men's garment, highlighting its versatility in historical clothing.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,072, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.