Definition

1. Noun:
   • A medieval headdress: A piece of cloth worn by women in the Middle Ages, covering the head and wrapped around the neck and chin, often framing the face.

Usage

• The wimple was a common part of women's attire in medieval Europe, particularly among married women and nuns.
• It is primarily used in historical or religious contexts to describe a specific type of head covering.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Descriptive Context: The term is almost exclusively used when discussing historical fashion, religious orders, or historical fiction.
  • The effigy of the queen showed her wearing a wimple of fine linen.

Variants and Related Words

• Veil (n): A piece of fine material worn to protect or conceal the face. (A wimple is often worn with a veil.)
• Headdress (n): A decorative covering or band for the head.
• Gorget (n): A piece of armor for the throat; or historically, a wimple-like cloth for the neck.

Synonyms

• Head covering
• Kerchief (in a broad, historical sense)

Notes

• The wimple is distinct from a simple veil or scarf, as it specifically involves wrapping around the neck and chin.
• Its usage in modern English is largely confined to historical description. It is not used for contemporary clothing items.

Noun

1. headdress of cloth; worn over the head and around the neck and ears by medieval women