What does robe mean?
A robe is a long, loose garment, commonly one worn at home for warmth or comfort. This includes items called dressing robes, dressing gowns, or bathrobes, particularly in British and American English respectively. The word can also refer to distinctive formal clothing associated with judges, monarchs, members of religious or academic institutions, and other officials, as in “robes of office.” In theatrical and historical contexts, a robe may be a stylized garment worn by a character or performer. “Robe” is usually more general than “gown” and can suggest either softness and comfort or ceremonial formality depending on context. It also has an uncommon verb meaning, “to dress or clothe someone in a robe,” although modern speakers use the noun far more often. The word comes through Old French from Latin, and its modern associations range from domestic comfort to authority, dignity, and traditional office.
A long, loose garment, especially one worn for comfort at home or as a ceremonial garment associated with an official role.
"The monarch wore a richly embroidered robe for the ceremony."
The phrase “robes of office” refers to formal garments symbolizing the authority of a monarch, judge, or similar official.
To clothe or dress someone in a robe.
"The attendants robed the queen before the procession."
This verb is literary and much less common than the noun; it is especially associated with ceremonial dressing.
The plural is used for multiple garments and, in formal contexts, for the garments collectively associated with an institution or office.
"The judges donned their robes."
A robe can be everyday clothing, a symbol of authority, or even a theatrical costume—the word covers all three.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does robe come from?
The word entered English from Old French robe, which in turn came from Latin roba, a term for clothing or garment. Its earliest uses referred broadly to clothing, dress, or vesture before the noun became associated especially with long, loose garments. The modern ceremonial sense developed from the use of distinctive robes as visible symbols of rank, office, or institutional membership.
Related word forms
How robe is actually used
In British English, “dressing gown” is common, while “bathrobe” is especially frequent in American English. “Robe” is more formal than “gown” when referring to an official or ceremonial garment, but it is also a general word for a loose garment worn at home.
Easily confused with robe
A robe is a garment, whereas a rope is a length of twisted cord or fiber.