n. A hood attached to a gown or robe, and admitting of being drawn over the head or of being worn hanging on the shoulders: worn chiefly by monks, and characteristic of their dress or profession.n. A garment with a hood (vestis caputiata), black or gray or brown, varying in length in different ages and according to the usages of different orders, but having these two permanent characteristics, that it covered the head and shoulders, and that it was without sleeves.n. Hence A monk.n. A covering, originally cowl-shaped, for the top of a chimney or the upper end of a soil-pipe or ventilating shaft, made to turn with the wind, and intended to assist ventilation.n. A wire cap or cage on the top of a locomotive-funnel.n. An old name in some parts of England for a tub or large vessel for holding liquids; specifically, a large vessel for water, to be carried on a pole between two persons.n. See kowl.