Vestment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vestment

[หˆvestmษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

finance

A sum of money or other capital that is invested or available for investment.

Synonyms

capital, funds, investment.

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Word Description / Examples
vestment

This word is typically used in religious settings to describe the ceremonial robes worn by clergy during services.

  • The priest put on his vestments before the morning mass.
  • The church spent a significant amount on new vestments for the choir members.
investment

Investment is generally used to describe the act of allocating money with the expectation of generating a profit. It's often used in financial and economic discussions.

  • Her investment in the stock market paid off handsomely.
  • He's looking for a safe investment with steady returns.
capital

Capital refers to financial assets or resources that a business can use to fund operations and growth. It's often used in business and economic contexts.

  • The startup needs more capital to expand its operations.
  • She invested her capital in various stocks and real estate.
funds

Funds can refer to money set aside for a specific purpose. It can be used in both personal and professional contexts.

  • He raised funds to support his new business venture.
  • The charity needs more funds to continue its programs.

Examples of usage

  • Many investors are considering the best vestment opportunities in the current market.
  • The company's vestment in new technology paid off with increased productivity.
Context #2 | Noun

religion

A ceremonial robe worn by the clergy or members of a religious order.

Synonyms

attire, garment, robe.

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Word Description / Examples
vestment

Typically used in religious or ceremonial contexts to refer to specific clothing worn by clergy or other officiants. These are often ornate and symbolic.

  • The priest donned his vestment before the ceremony began.
  • The bishop's vestment was decorated with intricate embroidery.
robe

Usually refers to a long, loose-fitting outer garment, often worn at home for comfort or associated with specific professions or ceremonies, such as judicial robes or academic gowns.

  • After the bath, she wrapped herself in a plush robe.
  • The judge adjusted his robe before taking a seat in the courtroom.
garment

A general term for an article of clothing. This can be used in both everyday and formal contexts but is often used in more professional or technical discussions about clothing.

  • Each garment in the collection was carefully crafted.
  • He folded the garment and placed it in the drawer.
attire

Refers to clothing in a general, often formal or specific context. It can be used for any type of dress code, but usually implies thoughtfulness or appropriateness for the occasion.

  • Her wedding attire was absolutely stunning.
  • Please wear business attire for tomorrow's meeting.

Examples of usage

  • The bishop wore a luxurious vestment for the special ceremony.
  • The monks donned their simple vestments for the morning prayers.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'vestment' comes from the Latin term 'vestimentum', meaning 'clothing' or 'garment'.
  • In ancient Rome, specific garments denoted status and class, influencing contemporary religious attire.
  • As early as the 4th century, specific vestments were established for Christian clergy, evolving through centuries.

Religious Significance

  • Vestments often have specific colors and styles corresponding to different church seasons and celebrations.
  • Various religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Buddhism, utilize distinctive vestments reflecting their traditions.
  • In many faiths, the type of vestment can symbolize purity, authority, or divine connection.

Cultural References

  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often wore elaborate vestments to convey their social status and emotions.
  • Modern fashion designers sometimes draw inspiration from historical vestments to create ceremonial clothing.
  • Some festivals around the world feature vibrant vestments, highlighting cultural heritage and community identity.

Art and Literature

  • Vestments are often depicted in religious paintings, symbolizing the sacred nature of the figures they represent.
  • Literature frequently uses vestments to symbolize deeper themes, such as disguise or social critique.
  • Prominent artists like Raphael included detailed vestments in their works to showcase their attention to cultural detail.

Symbolism in Fashion

  • Outside of religion, the term can also refer to attire that symbolizes authority, like academic gowns.
  • Fashion often uses the concept of vestments to convey messages about identity and roles in society.
  • Certain cultures believe that wearing traditional vestments can connect individuals to their ancestors and heritage.

Origin of 'vestment'

The word 'vestment' originated in the late Middle English period, derived from the Old French 'vestment' or 'vestement', which in turn came from the Latin 'vestmentum', meaning 'garment' or 'clothing'. The term has evolved to encompass both financial investment and religious attire, reflecting its dual usage in different contexts.


See also: divest, divestment, vest, veste.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,887, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.