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Surplice Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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surplice

[ˈsɜːrplɪs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

religious garment

A surplice is a loose-fitting white linen or cotton overgarment worn by clergy or choir members during worship services. It usually features wide sleeves and is typically worn over a cassock. The surplice symbolizes purity and is often associated with liturgical functions in many Christian denominations.

Synonyms

alb, vestment.

Examples of usage

  • The priest wore a surplice during the Sunday service.
  • Choir members donned their surplices before the concert.
  • During the baptism ceremony, the officiant was dressed in a surplice.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • Originally worn by clergy, it was adopted from the more elaborate vestments used in medieval times.
  • The surplice became popular in the Anglican Church during the 16th century, symbolizing a shift towards simpler worship attire.
  • In the Catholic tradition, it is often worn during Mass, reflecting a connection to the sacredness of ceremonies.

Cultural Significance

  • The surplice is seen as a symbol of purity and cleanliness, often made from white or light-colored fabric.
  • In various denominations, the surplice serves to visually distinguish clergy from the congregation during services.
  • Its design may vary regionally, with some cultures incorporating unique embroidery or embellishments.

Fashion and Textiles

  • The fabric of a surplice can include linen, cotton, or synthetic materials, chosen for comfort and appearance.
  • Fashion designers have drawn inspiration from liturgical garments, modernizing the surplice into everyday wear or costumes.
  • While traditionally longer, contemporary versions can be shorter or styled differently, reflecting current trends.

Art and Literature

  • The surplice has appeared in countless paintings and literary works, often symbolizing divine authority or moral guidance.
  • Noted artists, including Rembrandt and Michelangelo, have depicted figures wearing the garment, further embedding it in cultural history.
  • In Victorian literature, the surplice symbolized the character's role within societal and religious hierarchies.

Origin of 'surplice'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'superpelliceum', which means 'to wear over the skin'.
  • It has roots in the French word 'surplis', referring to an outer garment worn by clergy.
  • The term has been used in English since the late 14th century, highlighting its long-standing significance in religious attire.

The word 'surplice' comes from the Old French word 'surplis,' which means 'overplus' or 'overgarment.' This, in turn, is derived from the Latin term 'superpelliceum,' composed of 'super-' (meaning 'above' or 'over') and 'pelliceum' (meaning 'pelage' or 'fur garment'). Originally, the surplice was used in the medieval period as a liturgical garment worn over the cassock by clergy during church services. The design and fabric of surplices varied over time, often reflecting the styles and materials available in different historical periods. As a vestment, it has maintained its significance in many Christian liturgical traditions, serving as a marker of clerical identity and function.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,243, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.