cassock: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (specialist/ecclesiastical context)Formal, ecclesiastical
Quick answer
What does “cassock” mean?
A long, close-fitting garment worn by clergy and some members of church choirs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A long, close-fitting garment worn by clergy and some members of church choirs.
Symbol of clerical office and religious tradition; sometimes used metonymically to refer to the clergy as a group.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is identical in both varieties, as the term is tied to ecclesiastical tradition rather than regional dialect.
Connotations
In both cultures, strongly associated with Anglican/Episcopal, Catholic, and some Protestant liturgical traditions.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both regions, confined to religious contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “cassock” in a Sentence
wear + cassockbe dressed in + a cassockput on + a cassockthe cassock of + (rank, e.g., a bishop)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cassock” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The deacon will cassock himself before the service. (rare, non-standard)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in historical, religious studies, or theological contexts.
Everyday
Rare, except for individuals involved in church activities.
Technical
Specific term in liturgy and ecclesiastical dress.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cassock”
- Confusing with 'corset' (a supportive undergarment).
- Using 'cassock' to refer to any long robe or academic gown.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. A cassock is a specific type of ankle-length, close-fitting clerical garment. 'Robe' is a more general term for any loose outer garment.
No. It is most common in Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and some Lutheran traditions. Many Protestant denominations do not use it.
A cassock is the long, close-fitting undergarment, usually black or coloured. A surplice is a loose, white liturgical vestment worn over the cassock.
Yes, it can be used metonymically to refer to the clergy as an institution, e.g., 'a decision from the cassock' implying clerical authority.
A long, close-fitting garment worn by clergy and some members of church choirs.
Cassock is usually formal, ecclesiastical in register.
Cassock: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkasək/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæsək/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “the man in the cassock (referring to a clergyman)”
- “take the cassock (to become a clergyman)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a CASe of SOCKs—but for a priest, it's one long 'case' (garment) that covers like a sock from waist to ankle.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE CASSOCK IS A BADGE OF OFFICE (signifying religious authority and role).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would you most likely encounter the word 'cassock'?