Definition of the word cowl

The word "cowl" originates from the Old English word "calu," which means "hood" or "covering for the head." This word originated from the Germanic word "*kal Hum," which referred to a kind of headdress or hood that was worn by Germanic warriors to protect their heads from wind, rain, and snow. Over time, the meaning of the word "cowl" evolved to refer specifically to a type of hooded cloak or mantle that was worn by religious figures, such as monks and priests. These garments were often made of generous woolen fabric and had a distinctive shape that resembled the coiled hood of a dragon or the neck of an animal, hence the Latin word "collum," meaning "neck." The word "cowl" also variants in other Germanic languages, such as the Old Frisian "kol", Old Saxon "kalwō," and Old High German "halkmazd," which further attests to its Germanic origin. Today, the word "cowl" is still used to refer to the neck aspect of certain garments, such as turtlenecks, which wrap around the neck and resemble the coiled hood of a cowl. Furthermore, the word "cowl" is sometimes used as a style name for certain garments, such as the hoods worn in fashion or sports.