ENGLISH
REFERENCE

shawl

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈʃɔɫ// UK //ʃˈɔːl// shawl

n. a large piece of fabric that you wear over your shoulders or head to stay warm or look nice.

n. a large piece of fabric, often rectangular or triangular, worn loosely over the shoulders, upper body, or head. Frequently used for warmth or as a decorative accessory in traditional and formal dress.


SIMPLE

She wrapped a wool shawl around her shoulders to stay warm.

CONTEXTUAL

The bride wore a delicate lace shawl over her gown during the evening reception in the garden.

COMPLEX

Hand-woven shawls from this region are prized for their intricate patterns and the high quality of the local wool, often passed down through generations as family heirlooms.

Origin

From Hindi शाल (śāl) and Urdu شال (śāl), from Persian شال (šâl).

Usage

Commonly paired with the verbs 'wrap', 'drape', or 'wear'.

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