gown

gown · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A long, elegant dress worn on formal occasions.

  2. 2.

    To dress in a gown.

  3. 3.

    A loose outer garment worn for a specific purpose.

  4. 4.

    A protective garment worn by patients in hospitals.

  5. 5.

    (British) The members of a university, as distinct from townspeople.

Forms

plural: gowns

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    ball gown — A formal dress for dancing
  • •
    wedding gown — A dress worn by a bride
  • •
    evening gown — A formal dress for evening events
  • •
    cap and gown — Academic ceremonial dress
  • •
    town and gown — The relationship between a university and its surrounding community

Related words

See also: attire, dress, garment, robe
Synonyms: dress, frock, robe

Etymology

From Old French goune, possibly from Late Latin gunna ("fur garment"), of uncertain ultimate origin. The word has been used in English since the 14th century.