mantle etymology

Etymology:

The word "mantle" derives from the Middle English term "mantel," which originated from the Old French "mantel" or "mantell." This, in turn, traces its roots to the Latin word "mantellum," a diminutive form of "mantis," meaning "cloth" or "covering."

Meaning:

  1. Clothing: A loose, flowing outer garment, typically worn over other clothes for warmth or protection.
  2. Geology: The layer of Earth beneath the crust, extending to a depth of around 2,900 kilometers (1,800 miles).
  3. Heraldry: A cloak or wrap worn over a coat of arms, often representing a person's status or occupation.
  4. Figurative: A cover or layer that protects, conceals, or enhances something else.

Origin:

The concept of a mantle as a garment has existed since ancient times, with various civilizations using different types of cloaks, shawls, and capes for warmth and protection. The term "mantellum" in Latin specifically referred to a short cape worn by Roman soldiers.

In geology, the term "mantle" was first used in the 18th century by the French physicist Pierre Bouguer to describe the Earth's interior layer beneath the crust. The term was inspired by the idea of a mantle-like layer covering the Earth's core.

Over time, the word "mantle" has expanded its meaning to include figurative and symbolic uses, such as a protective covering, a symbol of authority, or a layer of protection or enhancement.

mantle relate terms

  • dismantle

    Etymology Old French desmanteler desmantenir Late Latin dismantellare from dis ap

  • mantle

    Etymology The word mantle derives from the Middle English term mantel which origina

  • manta

    Etymology The word manta comes from the Spanish word manta which means blanket or

  • mantle

    Etymology The word mantle derives from the Middle English term mantel which origina

  • mantel

    Etymology From Middle French mantel from Old French mantel from Late Latin mantellum

  • Mantua

    Etymology and Meaning The name Mantua derives from the ancient Etruscan word Mantus

  • portmanteau

    Etymology and Origin The word portmanteau is derived from French where it means sui

  • cope

    Etymology The word cope comes from the Latin word cappa meaning cloak or hooded

  • caparison

    Etymology Old French caparasson caperon Late Latin caparo capparonus Probably from

  • tassel

    Etymology The word tassel comes from the Middle French word tassel which in turn de

  • drape

    Etymology Middle English drapen from Old French draper to drape furnish with hangin

  • blanket

    Etymology The word blanket derives from the Middle English term blankette which ult

  • prod

    Etymology Latin prodere meaning to betray to expose Old French proder prower me

  • drop

    Etymology From Middle English droppe from Old English dropa ddropa drop small porti