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pallium

pallium

9.9
A wool cloak worn over the shoulders by men in ancient Rome
  • noun
  • /ˈpæl.i.əm/
  • Archaic
translation icon : 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
61 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
22 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
6 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
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
61 3.2
mantle
  • Archaic
6 8.9
pallium
  • Archaic
9.9
shawl
39 1.0
scarf
134 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.