surplice
1 of 2noun
sur·plice ˈsər-pləs 
: a loose white outer ecclesiastical vestment usually of knee length with large open sleeves
surplice
2 of 2adjective
: having a diagonally overlapping neckline or closing
a surplice collar
surplice sweaters
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web
Jennifer Chan, PEOPLE.com, 12 Apr. 2022 Flattering details like its surplice neckline, subtle front slit, and fluttery sleeves and hemline elevate its simple style, meaning it can be worn for casual day trips and dressed up for a dinner show. Emily Belfiore, Travel + Leisure, 15 Mar. 2022 The size-inclusive, curve-friendly stunner features spandex to hug your curves comfortably, along with beautiful ruching details, a surplice neckline, and elegant long sleeves for extra warmth for chilly evenings. Jennifer Chan, PEOPLE.com, 26 Oct. 2021 Why does the judge don his robe, the priest his surplice, the scholar his gown, the barrister his wig, the queen her crown? Michael Knox Beran, National Review, 6 Feb. 2020 Camarón, in his day, had a similarly surplice-shredding effect. James Parker, The Atlantic, 21 Dec. 2019 At the sound of a tap, dozens of young men clad in black cassocks and white surplices rise from kneeling positions to watch two of their brother priests begin a chant. Julia Shumway, The Seattle Times, 24 May 2017 See More
Noun
This sleeveless maxi dress offers a figure-flattering silhouette with a surplice neckline and defined waistline; and features that unmistakable retro print that's reminiscent of Klum's look. Jennifer Chan, PEOPLE.com, 12 Apr. 2022 Flattering details like its surplice neckline, subtle front slit, and fluttery sleeves and hemline elevate its simple style, meaning it can be worn for casual day trips and dressed up for a dinner show. Emily Belfiore, Travel + Leisure, 15 Mar. 2022 The size-inclusive, curve-friendly stunner features spandex to hug your curves comfortably, along with beautiful ruching details, a surplice neckline, and elegant long sleeves for extra warmth for chilly evenings. Jennifer Chan, PEOPLE.com, 26 Oct. 2021 Why does the judge don his robe, the priest his surplice, the scholar his gown, the barrister his wig, the queen her crown? Michael Knox Beran, National Review, 6 Feb. 2020 Camarón, in his day, had a similarly surplice-shredding effect. James Parker, The Atlantic, 21 Dec. 2019 At the sound of a tap, dozens of young men clad in black cassocks and white surplices rise from kneeling positions to watch two of their brother priests begin a chant. Julia Shumway, The Seattle Times, 24 May 2017 See More Word History
Etymology
Noun
Middle English surplis, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin superpellicium, from super- + pellicium coat of skins, from Latin, neuter of pellicius made of skins, from pellis skin — more at fell
First Known Use
Noun
13th century, in the meaning defined above
Adjective
circa 1897, in the meaning defined above