gown etymology

Etymology

The word "gown" is derived from the Old French word "gonne," which meant a loose outer garment or cloak. The term was originally applied to a wide variety of garments, including robes, tunics, and overdresses.

Meaning

A gown is a formal, long garment that is worn by women on special occasions. It is typically made of a luxurious fabric, such as silk or velvet, and is often floor-length. Gowns can be either fitted or flowing, and may be adorned with embellishments such as lace, beads, or embroidery.

Origin

The origins of gowns date back to the Middle Ages, when they were worn by noblewomen and other high-ranking individuals. At that time, gowns were typically made of heavy fabrics, such as wool or linen, and were designed to provide warmth and protection. Over time, gowns evolved to become more elaborate and decorative, and they eventually became the standard evening wear for women in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Today, gowns are still worn for formal occasions, such as weddings, proms, and award ceremonies. However, they have also become more versatile, and can now be worn for a variety of semi-formal and informal events.

gown relate terms

  • nightgown

    Etymology The word nightgown is a compound word derived from two Middle English words

  • night

    Etymology The word night comes from the Middle English word niht which in turn comes

  • gown

    Etymology The word gown is derived from the Old French word gonne which meant a loos

  • tea gown

    Etymology Tea gown is a compound phrase derived from tea and gown Meaning A

  • gown

    Etymology The word gown is derived from the Old French word gonne which meant a loos

  • robe

    Etymology The word robe comes from the Old French word robe which in turn comes from

  • train

    Etymology Old French train from Latin trahere meaning to drag pull or draw Mean

  • skirt

    Etymology Old English scyrte from Proto Germanic skurta short Cognate with Ol

  • cassock

    Etymology The word cassock originates from the Old French word casoque 12th century

  • polonaise

    Etymology French polonaise Polish polonez Meaning A slow and stately dance of Po

  • kirtle

    Etymology and Meaning The word kirtle comes from the Middle English word kirtel whi

  • cowl

    Etymology Middle English couel coule from Old English cūgel cognate with Old Norse

  • frock

    Etymology The word frock derives from the Old English word frocc which referred to

  • Boer

    Etymology The word boer comes from the Middle Dutch and Afrikaans word boere which m

  • bore

    Etymology The word bore has its origins in Old English where it is derived from the w