What does shawl mean?
A shawl is a broad piece of fabric worn over the shoulders or wrapped around the body to provide warmth. It is often square or rectangular and may be made from wool, cotton, silk, or other materials. Shawls have a long association with South Asian dress, although the English word entered through South Asian languages and is now used broadly for any garment of this general type. In everyday speech, “wear a shawl” and “wrap a shawl around” are the most frequent expressions. The word can also refer to a similar cloth worn over the head. In literature and conversation, a shawl may carry a sense of tradition, elegance, travel, or age, particularly when it is associated with an older person or a period setting. Unlike a scarf, which is usually narrower and tied around the neck, a shawl is generally larger and is draped or wrapped around the upper body.
A large piece of fabric worn over the shoulders or around the body for warmth.
"Her embroidered shawl covered most of her dress."
The word can also refer to a cloth worn around the head.
To wrap or cover someone or something with a shawl.
"She shawled the sleeping child."
This use is relatively uncommon and is more often encountered in older, literary, or regional contexts.
The standard plural is “shawls.”
"The shop sells woollen shawls and evening wraps."
The shawl began as a textile associated with South Asian dress and became a classic symbol of warmth, travel, and elegant layering.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shawl come from?
The English word “shawl” dates from the late eighteenth century and was borrowed through Urdu, whose word shawl ultimately derives from Persian. The garment itself has an older history in South and Central Asia, where shawls have long been woven and worn in a wide variety of designs. English usage broadened over time to include Western-style wraps and shawls worn with everyday or formal clothing.
How shawl is actually used
The word is neutral and traditional in British and US English. It is sometimes used poetically or nostalgically for a garment or wrap associated with elderly people, travel, or old-fashioned dress.
Easily confused with shawl
A shawl is a piece of fabric worn for warmth, whereas shall is a modal verb used to express future intention, obligation, or permission.