Clokes

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. Serving as an archaic spelling of garments designed to wrap around and cover the body for warmth or concealment ; referring to pieces of outerwear often draped over the shoulders
  2. Representing an old-fashioned form of outer coverings worn to protect or hide a person ; indicating heavy, loose-fitting clothing that envelops the wearer
  3. Acting as a historical variation of a word for sleeveless garments used for shielding from weather or for disguise ; denoting overgarments that are fastened at the neck and flow down the back

Etymology: The word "clokes" appears to be a variant or a less common form related to "cloak," a term with deep historical roots in English. "Cloak" itself comes from the Old North French "cloque," meaning a traveling cloak or a hooded cape, which entered English usage around the 13th century. This Old French term likely derived from Medieval Latin "clocca," meaning "bell," referencing the bell-like shape of the garment as it hung over the shoulders. In Middle English, spelling was far from standardized, and variants such as "cloke," "clok," and "clokes" could all coexist, often depending on regional dialects or scribal preferences. The plural form "clokes" would naturally refer to multiple cloaks or similar outer garments. Over time, "cloak" became the dominant spelling and usage, but older texts or dialectal speech might preserve forms like "clokes." The evolution of this term reflects broader patterns in English where borrowed words from Old French were adapted and sometimes multiplied in spelling and pronunciation before settling into their modern forms. The root concept—a loose, sleeveless garment worn over indoor clothing—has remained consistent, emphasizing protection and concealment, which is why "cloak" and its variants have also taken on figurative meanings related to disguise and secrecy. While "clokes" is not commonly seen in contemporary English, its existence highlights the fluidity of medieval spelling and the rich tapestry of linguistic influences shaping English vocabulary over centuries.