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pallium

pallium

1 9.9
A wool cloak worn over the shoulders by men in ancient Rome
  • noun
  • /ˈpæl.i.əm/
  • Archaic
: manto
  • In ancient Rome, the pallium was often made of wool and draped elegantly.

Examples

  • In ancient Rome, men often draped a pallium over their shoulders.

  • The senator wore a beautiful pallium during the ceremony.

  • Archaeological finds include fragments of what was once a richly decorated pallium.

  • The senator adjusted his pallium before stepping onto the rostrum.

  • In ancient Rome, the pallium was a symbol of status, often worn during important public events.

  • The philosopher wrapped his pallium around his shoulders as he prepared to deliver his lecture.

  • During colder months, many men would wear a pallium to keep warm while attending the forum.

Synonyms

cloak
vspallium
66 3.2

A loose outer coat that fastens at the neck and hangs down the back

is specifically the Roman shoulder drape rather than any loose outerwear
toga
vspallium
16 8.4

A loose cloth worn over the body by men in ancient Rome

is a shoulder-only Roman drape rather than a body-wrapping garment
mantle
vspallium
  • Archaic
2 8.9

A sleeveless cloak worn over the shoulders in old times

is a Roman shoulder drape rather than a short sleeveless piece
himation
vspallium
  • Archaic
1 9.9

A large rectangular cloth worn over the body in ancient Greece

is the Roman shoulder drape rather than a Greek rectangular wrap

How Big

cloak
66 3.2
mantle
  • Archaic
2 8.9
pallium
  • Archaic
1 9.9
shawl
36 1.0
scarf
207 1.0

Surface Forms

pallium singular
pallia plural

Etymology

The word pallium comes from the Latin pallium meaning 'cloak', and in ancient Rome it was a simple wool cloak draped over the shoulders. That's why a pallium refers to a cloak or mantle worn by men long ago.