Definition

Noun: A soutane is a long, close-fitting, ankle-length garment with buttons down the front, traditionally worn by Roman Catholic clergy, especially priests.

Usage

The word soutane is a specific term for a clerical garment. It is used to describe the formal, everyday outer robe of a priest. * The priest donned his black soutane before the service. * In many traditional parishes, you can still see clergy wearing the soutane.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in historical or descriptive contexts concerning Catholic liturgy, tradition, or clerical dress.
• It can be used metaphorically to represent the priesthood or clerical life itself.
  • He has worn the soutane for over forty years. (This implies he has been a priest for over forty years.)

Variants and Related Words

• Cassock: This is a more general synonym for soutane. While often used interchangeably, "cassock" can refer to similar garments worn by clergy in other Christian denominations, whereas soutane is specifically Roman Catholic.
• Clerical robe: A broader, non-specific term for garments worn by clergy.

Synonyms

Cassock, clerical garment, priest's robe.

Antonyms

There are no direct antonyms, as it is a specific item of clothing. Contextual opposites could include secular attire or lay clothing.

Related Phrases

• To wear the soutane: To be a priest; to live a clerical life.
• In (full) soutane: Dressed in this formal clerical garment.

Noun

1. a long cassock with buttons down the front; worn by Roman Catholic priests