What does "cassock" mean?

An item of clerical clothing: a long, sheath-like, close-fitting, ankle-length robe worn by clergy members of some Christian denominations.

What is a synonym for "cassock"?

Common synonyms include: alb, cape, chasuble, churchman, clergyman, cleric.

//ˈkæsək// noun

noun ·Uncommon ·College level

Noun

1
An item of clerical clothing: a long, sheath-like, close-fitting, ankle-length robe worn by clergy members of some Christian denominations.
"It was a joy to snatch some brief respite, and find himself in the rectory drawing–room. Listening here was as pleasant as talking; just to watch was pleasant. The young priests who lived here wore cassocks and birettas; their faces were fine and mild, yet really strong, like the rector's face; and in their intercourse with him and his wife they seemed to be brothers."
2
a black garment reaching down to the ankles; worn by priests or choristers wordnet
3
A military cloak or long coat worn by soldiers or horsemen in the 16th and 17th centuries. obsolete
4
A coarse, loose cloak or gown, worn by women, sailors, shepherds, countryfolk etc. obsolete

"The priest's cassock billowed gently in the wind."

From Middle French casaque (“cloak”).

Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.