Definition

Noun: A loose-fitting, typically white, knee-length liturgical vestment with wide sleeves, worn over a cassock by clergy, acolytes, and choristers in various Christian denominations, especially during services.

Usage

The surplice is a specific type of ecclesiastical garment. It is worn for specific liturgical functions and is not general attire. - It is typically put on over a cassock. - It is commonly associated with services like the Eucharist, Morning Prayer, or Evensong. - Its wide sleeves and loose fit distinguish it from tighter-fitting vestments like the alb.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The choirboys wore crisp white surplices over their black cassocks.
  • The priest donned his surplice before proceeding to the altar.
  • A linen surplice is a traditional vestment in many Anglican churches.

Advanced Usage

• "Cotta": A shorter form of the surplice, often reaching only to the waist or hips, commonly worn by servers in some Roman Catholic traditions.
• "Rochet": A vestment similar to a surplice but often made of finer linen or lace and worn by bishops and certain other clergy.

Variants and Related Words

• Surpliced (adj.): Describing someone who is wearing a surplice.
  • The surpliced choir processed down the aisle.

Synonyms

• Ecclesiastical vestment: A general term for any garment worn by clergy for services.
• Liturgical robe: A robe worn for worship services.

Related Phrases

• "To vest in surplice and stole": A phrase describing the act of putting on these specific vestments for a liturgical role.
  • The deacon vested in surplice and stole for the ceremony.

Noun

1. a loose-fitting white ecclesiastical vestment with wide sleeves