Mantle: meaning, definitions and examples

Used here to describe the same as the first 'mantle' entry, often focusing on the symbolic or historical aspect.

• He wore an academic mantle during the ceremony.
• The mantle of responsibility can be heavy to bear.

Describes a long, loose outer garment that covers most of the body. Often associated with secrecy or concealment.

• The mysterious figure was hidden beneath a dark, flowing cloak.
• He tried to cloak his intentions behind a friendly smile.

A piece of fabric worn around the shoulders or head, usually by women for warmth or decoration.

• She draped a beautiful silk shawl over her shoulders.
• The elderly lady wrapped a warm shawl around herself on the chilly evening.

Generally refers to any piece of fabric used to cover or enclose something. Often used informally to describe clothing items.

• She bought a colorful wrap to wear at the beach.
• He used a thick wrap to stay warm during the winter hike.

Used in geology and astronomy to describe a large, significant layer between the Earth's crust and core; also used metaphorically to describe a role or responsibility taken over from someone else.

• The Earth's mantle lies between the crust and the core.
• She took on the mantle of leadership after her father stepped down.

Refers generally to any substance or material that coats or covers another surface; can also mean a level or tier in various contexts such as clothing, architecture, or computing.

• The cake has three layers of chocolate and cream.
• Wear multiple layers of clothing to stay warm in winter.

Primarily used in scientific and academic contexts to denote a layer of rock, sediment, or atmosphere that is distinct due to its unique characteristics; also used in social sciences to refer to different levels of social classes.

• The fossil was found in a deep stratum of sedimentary rock.
• The upper social stratum tends to have more access to education.

Commonly used to describe an area or region that is marked off for a specific purpose or has particular characteristics; can apply to geographic areas, climate conditions, or different realms within a field of activity.

• This zone is restricted to authorized personnel only.
• The climate zone in the region is known for its extreme weather conditions.

Typically refers to a position of responsibility or authority that is passed on from one person to another, often used in formal or literary contexts.

• After the CEO retired, she passed the mantle of leadership to her successor.
• The young prince was not yet ready to take up the mantle of kingship.

Used when someone takes control of a responsibility, duty, or role, often without explicit appointment or in a more assertive manner.

• After the crisis, he had to assume control of the situation immediately.
• She will assume the duties of the role starting next week.

Commonly used in informal settings when someone accepts a new task, job, or responsibility.

• She decided to take on extra work to save money for her vacation.
• Are you sure you want to take on such a challenging project?

Implies taking on a burden, responsibility, or duty, often with a sense of difficulty or effort involved.

• He had to shoulder the financial responsibilities of the family after his father's passing.
• The manager shouldered the blame for the project's failure.