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Cowl Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cowl

[kaสŠl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

headwear

A cowl is a hood or long hooded cloak, especially as worn by monks.

Synonyms

cloak, hood, hooded cloak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cowl

Often used to describe a garment that covers the head and shoulders, worn by monks or for some traditional attire.

  • The monk pulled his cowl over his head before entering the abbey.
  • The knight's cowl concealed his face as he walked through the shadows.
hood

Refers to a covering for the head and neck that is often attached to a coat, jacket, or cloak. It is practical and usually used for protection against weather.

  • She pulled up her hood as the rain began to fall.
  • The thief hid his face under the hood to avoid being recognized.
cloak

Commonly used to describe a long, loose outer garment without sleeves that covers most of the body. Usually worn for warmth, protection, or as a dramatic element in stories and films.

  • The wizard wrapped his cloak tightly around him to ward off the cold night air.
  • The princess threw on her cloak before sneaking out of the castle.
hooded cloak

Specifically describes a cloak that has a hood attached, combining the features of both garments. It is often depicted in fantasy settings or historical contexts.

  • The traveler wore a hooded cloak to keep out the cold and hide his identity.
  • In many fairy tales, characters are portrayed wearing a hooded cloak to add a sense of mystery.

Examples of usage

  • The monk pulled his cowl over his head to shield himself from the rain.
  • She wore a cowl to keep warm in the chilly weather.
Context #2 | Noun

engineering

A cowl is a covering for an engine or machine, usually to direct airflow or prevent debris from entering.

Synonyms

covering, enclosure, shroud.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cowl

Typically used to refer to a hood or hooded robe, often associated with monks or certain types of headgear. Can also refer to a part of a vehicle or equipment that covers and protects.

  • The monk pulled the cowl over his head.
  • The cowl on the engine prevents debris from entering.
covering

A general term for anything that serves as a cover. Can refer to both literal and figurative coverings, suitable for a wide range of applications.

  • A covering of snow blanketed the ground.
  • The book had a protective covering.
shroud

Typically associated with something that fully conceals or wraps, often used in a somber or mysterious context. Can have a negative or ominous connotation.

  • The body was wrapped in a shroud.
  • A shroud of fog enveloped the town.
enclosure

Used when referring to a space that is completely closed off or surrounded, often implying some form of containment or protection.

  • The zooโ€™s lion enclosure has a high fence.
  • Please find the document in the enclosed envelope.

Examples of usage

  • The car's engine cowl needed to be replaced after being damaged in an accident.
  • The airplane's cowl was designed to improve aerodynamics.
Context #3 | Verb

animal husbandry

To cowl means to cover with a hood or wrap around the head, as done with cattle to restrict their vision and reduce stress.

Synonyms

cover, hood, wrap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cowl

A loose hood or hooded garment. It's typically associated with monks, costumes or traditional attire.

  • The monk pulled his cowl over his head.
  • She wore a medieval cowl for the festival.
hood

A piece of clothing that covers the head and neck and is typically attached to a jacket or sweatshirt.

  • He pulled his hood up when it started to rain.
  • Her jacket has a fluffy hood.
cover

A general term for anything that conceals or protects another object. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as books, furniture, or even insurance.

  • The cover of the book is very colorful.
  • She placed a cover over the sofa to protect it from stains.
wrap

A piece of fabric used to surround or cover something. Often relates to clothing items like shawls or scarves, but can also mean the act of covering something.

  • She wore a beautiful silk wrap around her shoulders.
  • He wrapped the gift with shiny paper.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer decided to cowl the cow during transportation to keep it calm.
  • The veterinarian advised cowl the horse to help it relax.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, cowls are symbolic of humility and devotion, reflecting the monastic tradition.
  • Some religious groups wear cowls to signify dedication, especially during prayers and ceremonies.

Fashion

  • Modern fashion has reinterpreted cowls, making them popular in various clothing designs, including sweaters and dresses.
  • Cowls can vary in fabric from wool for warmth to lighter materials for style, showing versatility in fashion.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters in cowls often represent mystery or wisdom, like wizards or wise old men.
  • Notable figures in fantasy genres, such as the character Gandalf, are often depicted wearing cowls to emphasize their mystical qualities.

Influence in Media

  • Cowls are frequently used in movies and TV series to characterize villains or spellcasters, reinforcing their enigmatic presence.
  • Popular video games like 'The Legend of Zelda' feature characters wearing cowls, emphasizing stealth and intrigue.

Origin of 'cowl'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'cลซle', rooted in the Latin word 'cuculla', meaning hood.
  • Originally, it referred to a type of hooded garment worn by monks in medieval times.

The word 'cowl' has a long history, originating from the Old English word 'cugle' which meant a monk's hood. It has evolved over time to refer to various types of hoods or coverings, both in clothing and machinery. The use of cowls in engineering dates back to the early days of machinery when they were used to protect engine components. In animal husbandry, the practice of cowling animals has been around for centuries as a method to reduce stress and improve handling. Overall, 'cowl' has had a diverse history of usage in different contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,329, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.