English Reference
noun · verb

cape

n. · v.
US /ˈkeɪp/ UK /kˈeɪp/ cape UK spelling capes, caping

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.a piece of clothing without sleeves that you wear over your shoulders and fasten at the neck.

    n.a sleeveless outer garment that fastens at the neck and hangs loosely over the shoulders and back.

    Simple

    The magician wore a long black cape that flowed behind him as he walked.

    In context

    The costume designer opted for a heavy velvet cape to emphasize the character's royal status during the coronation scene.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Geography

    n.a piece of land that sticks out into a sea, ocean, or lake.

    n.a point or extension of land jutting out into a body of water; a promontory or headland.

    Simple

    The lighthouse was built on the edge of the cape to warn ships of the rocks.

    In context

    Navigating around the southern cape proved treacherous for early explorers due to the unpredictable currents and frequent storms.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced SlangInformal

    n.a word for a superhero, because many of them wear capes.

    n.a metonymic term for a superhero, derived from the common costume element.

    Simple

    The city is full of capes trying to stop the bank robbery.

    In context

    In this gritty reimagining of the genre, the capes are often more dangerous than the criminals they pursue.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced SlangAmerican English

    v.to defend or support someone, especially when other people are criticizing them.

    v.to vigorously defend or advocate for a person or cause, often one that is considered unworthy of such defense.

    Simple

    I don't know why you are caping for that celebrity after what they did.

    In context

    Social media users were quick to criticize the journalist for caping for the politician during the controversial interview.

    Usage

    often used with the preposition 'for'

Their first character was a 'superhero dolt', with a cape and a habit of falling down holes.

BBC News· 4 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated