Definition

1. Noun:
   • Royal robe / Imperial robe: A formal, ceremonial outer garment historically worn by a Vietnamese emperor, king, or high-ranking mandarin. It symbolizes supreme authority and is used in important court rituals.
   • Figurative, literary use: In modern poetry and literature, "áo bào" can evoke imagery of ancient majesty, sacrifice, or the trappings of power.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Nhà vua mặc áo bào trong lễ đăng quang. (The king wore the royal robe during the coronation ceremony.)
  • Trong bài thơ, hình ảnh "áo bào đỏ" tượng trưng cho sự hy sinh. (In the poem, the image of the "red royal robe" symbolizes sacrifice.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is primarily used in historical, literary, or poetic contexts. It is not used for contemporary clothing.

Variants and Related Words

• Long bào (n): Another term for the dragon robe, a specific type of imperial garment embroidered with dragons.
  • Long bào là biểu tượng quyền lực của hoàng đế. (The dragon robe is a symbol of the emperor's power.)

Synonyms

• Royal robe: A garment worn by a monarch.
• Imperial vestment: Ceremonial clothing of an emperor.
• Ceremonial gown: A formal robe for state occasions.

Related Idioms

• While there are no common idioms with "áo bào," the word itself often carries symbolic weight in literary expressions, representing power, duty, or the burdens of leadership.