Enrobe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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enrobe

[ɪnˈrəʊb ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

formal attire

To dress someone in a particular type of clothing, especially luxurious or elegant attire.

Synonyms

attire, clothe, dress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
enrobe

Repeated entry; please refer to the first 'enrobe' entry.

clothe

General term for putting clothes on someone or something. Can be used in both everyday and literary contexts.

  • They worked to clothe the homeless in warm garments
  • The artist felt inspired to clothe his characters in vibrant colors
attire

Usually refers to a specific type of clothing appropriate for particular events or activities. Often used in a more formal sense.

  • The invitation specified black-tie attire
  • She wore her best attire to the gala
dress

Commonly used in everyday situations to describe the act of putting clothes on oneself or someone else. Can also refer to clothing styles or fashion.

  • She took her time to dress for the party
  • He needs to dress warmly because it's cold outside

Examples of usage

  • He was enrobed in a stunning tuxedo for the awards ceremony.
  • The queen was enrobed in a magnificent gown for the state banquet.
Context #2 | Verb

legal context

To invest with a robe or robes; to attire; to robe.

Synonyms

attire, clothe, robe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
enrobe

This word is often formal and used to describe the act of dressing someone in specific clothing, usually in a ceremonial or special context.

  • The priest will enrobe the new members during the initiation ceremony.
  • She was enrobed in a beautiful gown for the award ceremony.
attire

This word refers to the clothing chosen for a specific occasion, often implying formality or style. It can also be used to describe someone's clothing in general.

  • She wore elegant attire for the wedding.
  • Proper business attire is required for the meeting.
robe

This word is usually used to describe a long, loose piece of clothing worn for relaxation or during a special ceremony. It can be casual (like a bathrobe) or formal (like a judge's robe).

  • After the bath, she put on her robe and relaxed.
  • The judge entered the courtroom in his official robe.
clothe

This word is more general and means to put clothes on someone. It is often used in everyday conversation without any special implication.

  • She helped clothe her younger sibling.
  • The organization aims to clothe the homeless.

Examples of usage

  • The judge enrobed the new attorneys with their official robes.
  • The ceremony included enrobing the president with the traditional garment.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, robes are symbols of status, wisdom, or authority, often worn by spiritual leaders.
  • Many educational institutions in the West use robes during graduation ceremonies to signify achievement.
  • Traditional Japanese garments, such as kimonos, are also a form of enrobement with deep cultural significance.

Art and Literature

  • Artists often depict subjects in robes to convey elegance or mystique, as seen in classical paintings.
  • In literature, characters may be 'enrobed' in rich imagery to symbolize their roles or transformations.
  • The character of the Oracle in various myths is often portrayed in flowing robes, emphasizing wisdom and foresight.

Psychology

  • Wearing formal or ceremonial robes can influence a person's confidence and behavior, a phenomenon known as 'enclothed cognition.'
  • Ceremonial clothing often evokes a sense of respect and reverence, affecting both the wearer and the audience.
  • The way people perceive others can change dramatically based on their clothing, triggering various social judgments.

Fashion

  • Robes can be both functional and stylish, integrating comfort and design in the fashion industry.
  • Modern interpretations of robes include various iterations such as bathrobes, which symbolize relaxation and home comfort.
  • Various designers draw inspiration from traditional robes, incorporating elements into contemporary fashion statements.

Origin of 'enrobe'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle French 'enrober,' which means 'to cover with a robe.'
  • It combines 'en-' (meaning 'in' or 'into') and 'robe' (a type of clothing).
  • First recorded usage dates back to the 15th century, primarily in a ceremonial context.

The word 'enrobe' originated from the Middle French word 'enrober', which means 'to wrap up'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Initially, it was used in the context of clothing and dressing someone in robes or elegant attire. Over time, the legal context of investing with official robes also became associated with the term.


See also: disrobe, robe, robed, unrobe.