English · Word Candidate

mantle

/ˈmæn.təl/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: mantles · mantling · mantled

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A piece of clothing somewhat like an open robe or cloak, especially that worn by Orthodox bishops.

Noun

Examples

The people of the village all said, "It could be none but the good-natured Dwarfs, who come by night tripping along with their feet covered with long mantles, as light as birds, and industriously perform for mankind their daily work."

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A figurative garment representing authority or status, capable of affording protection.

Noun

Examples

At the meeting, she finally assumed the mantle of leadership of the party.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To cover or conceal (something); to cloak; to disguise.

Verb

Examples

As the morning steals upon the night, Melting the darkness; so their rising senses Begin to chace the ign'rant fumes, that mantle Their clearer reason.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To become covered or concealed.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “mantle” mean?

A piece of clothing somewhat like an open robe or cloak, especially that worn by Orthodox bishops.

Is “mantle” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.