# toga

/ˈtoʊɡə/ (US) · /tˈəʊɡɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/toga
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. Ancient Roman clothing

noun · CEFR B2

a long, loose piece of clothing that people in Ancient Rome wore over their other clothes.

For teachers: a distinctive loose outer garment, typically made of a single piece of cloth, worn by the citizens of Ancient Rome.

- The actor wore a white toga for his role as a Roman senator.
- Historical records indicate that the toga was not merely clothing but a symbol of Roman citizenship and social status.

### 3. academic or legal robe

noun · CEFR B2 · Dialect

a long, formal robe worn by students at a graduation or by judges in a courtroom.

For teachers: a ceremonial gown or robe worn by graduates, lawyers, or judges, particularly in certain regional English varieties.

- She felt very proud wearing her graduation toga and cap for the ceremony.
- The university requires all faculty members to wear a formal toga during the annual commencement exercises.

## Examples

- The actor wore a white toga for the play.
- In many history books, you will see illustrations of Roman senators wearing a toga as a sign of their high status.
- The transition from the simple tunic to the elaborate toga marked a significant shift in Roman social hierarchy, eventually becoming a legal requirement for those holding public office.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.