VESTIMENT Meaning and
Definition
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Vestiment is a term that is primarily used in the context of medieval clothing and fashion. It refers to a specific type of garment, typically a long outer robe, cloak, or gown, that was worn by both men and women during the Middle Ages. The vestiment was typically made from high-quality materials such as silk, velvet, or brocade and was adorned with intricate embroidery or embellishments.
This term is often associated with the attire worn by clergy members, particularly during religious ceremonies. In this context, vestiments were usually symbolic and signified the rank or role of the wearer within the church hierarchy. For example, a bishop might wear a distinctive vestiment known as a chasuble during Mass, while a deacon might wear a dalmatic.
Beyond its association with religious garments, vestiment can also encompass a broader range of medieval attire worn by the aristocracy and nobility. These garments were often elaborate, with voluminous sleeves, rich colors, and intricate patterns. Examples of vestiments in this sense include courtly robes, ceremonial gowns, and cloaks worn by knights and royalty.
Overall, vestiment is a term that encapsulates the opulent and distinctive clothing of the medieval period, particularly the richly decorated outer garments worn by both religious figures and the upper echelons of society.
Etymology of VESTIMENT
The word vestiment is not found in common English usage. However, it is similar to the word vestment, which refers to a ceremonial or special article of clothing worn by individuals in religious or formal contexts.
The term vestment has its origin in the Latin word vestis, which means garment or clothing. In Medieval Latin, it evolved into vestimentum, which specifically denoted clothing associated with religious ceremonies. Over time, this term was adopted into Middle English as vestment.
