What does cowl mean?
A cowl is a large, loose hood, most famously the long pointed hood worn by monks and nuns as part of their religious habit. In everyday modern usage the word also refers to a hooded cover placed over a chimney flue or vent to keep out rain, birds, and downdraughts, and in fashion it describes the soft draped neckline known as a 'cowl neck'. The word carries strong connotations of monastic life, humility, and medieval imagery, so writers often reach for it when evoking cloisters, friars, or solemnity. Its core idea — something that shelters or drapes over the head — links all three senses. Whether describing a Benedictine's habit, a rooftop fitting, or a cosy knitted jumper, 'cowl' consistently denotes a protective, enveloping hood-like shape.
A large hood, especially that of a monk's habit; also a hooded covering over a chimney or vent.
"A slate-coloured cowl topped the old chimney to keep out the rain."
In architecture, 'chimney cowl' or 'vent cowl' is standard technical usage.
(Rare) To cover with or as if with a cowl; to hood.
"The statue stood cowled in shadow beneath the archway."
Regular plural; applies to both the garment sense and the chimney-fitting sense.
"Rows of terracotta cowls lined the rooftops of the old quarter."
Every medieval monk wore one, and today the same word names the little hood on top of your chimney that keeps the rain out.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of cowl
Cowl comes from the Old English 'cugle', borrowed from Medieval Latin 'cuculla' meaning a monk's hood, itself of uncertain earlier origin. It has been used for the monastic garment since Old English times, with the chimney-fitting sense developing later by extension of the 'hooded cover' idea. The rare adjective 'cucullate', meaning hood-shaped, shares the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How cowl is actually used
Most common in historical, ecclesiastical, or architectural contexts; the fashion sense ('cowl neck') appears mainly in clothing retail and knitting patterns. The verb 'to cow' (intimidate) is entirely unrelated despite superficial resemblance in some inflected forms.
Easily confused with cowl
Kohl is a dark cosmetic powder worn around the eyes, while a cowl is a hood or hooded cover.