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Toga Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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toga

[ˈtoʊ.gə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

ancient Roman garment

A toga is a distinctive garment of Ancient Rome, typically made of a single piece of cloth, usually wool, draped over the body in a specific manner. It was generally worn by male citizens over a tunic and symbolized Roman citizenship. The toga has various styles, signifying different statuses and occasions.

Synonyms

garment, mantle, robe.

Examples of usage

  • The senator wore a toga to the public gathering.
  • During festivals, many Romans donned colorful togas.
  • The toga was a symbol of Roman citizenship.
  • In history class, we learned about the significance of the toga.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • Togas were worn mainly during the Roman Republic and the early Empire, becoming less common by the 3rd century AD.
  • Only citizens could wear togas; slaves and non-citizens had to wear simpler garments.

Culture

  • Togas were a symbol of Roman identity and dignity, often depicted in art and literature of the time.
  • Many universities and institutions have adopted togas as part of their ceremonial dress to honor traditions of knowledge and learning.

Fashion

  • The toga was typically made of wool and could be quite heavy, requiring skill to drape properly.
  • Different types of togas existed, such as the toga virilis worn by adult males and the toga praetexta worn by magistrates and boys.

Modern References

  • The toga is often humorously associated with college fraternity rituals and parties, leading people to wear makeshift versions for fun.
  • Films and pop culture frequently depict togas during scenes set in ancient Rome, contributing to their iconic status.

Origin of 'toga'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'toga' comes from the Latin word 'togare,' which means 'to cover.'
  • The Roman toga was designed to signify status, with different styles representing different ranks in society.

The word 'toga' comes from the Latin 'toga', which means 'to cover'. It is believed that togas were used in Rome as early as the 5th century BCE, primarily as a form of dress to signify Roman citizenship. As Rome expanded, the toga became a symbol of Roman identity and was reserved for free Roman citizens, which helped distinguish them from slaves and foreigners who wore different kinds of clothing. The toga's style evolved over time, with various forms, including the toga praetexta for magistrates and the toga candida for candidates in elections. Its cultural significance remained strong until the fall of the Western Roman Empire, after which it gradually fell out of use, becoming a symbol of the ancient world.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,727, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.