Galabias
Part of speech: noun
Definitions
- A traditional loose-fitting garment typically worn in Middle Eastern and North African cultures, often made of cotton or linen; a type of robe or tunic used for everyday wear; culturally significant clothing reflecting regional heritage
- A long, flowing robe common in Arab societies, usually worn by men; a piece of clothing designed for comfort and ventilation in hot climates; a customary dress item symbolizing identity and tradition
- An exterior garment resembling a caftan worn in various Arab countries; attire meant to protect from the sun while maintaining breathability; a staple garment embodying cultural and historical values
Etymology: "Galabias" is the plural of "galabia," the long loose robe worn across much of the Arab world, and the singular is the form the dictionary entry is built on. The garment is known by its own name in several dialects, and English took the term directly from Arabic. Because the word is a plural, the English form is the one that appears most often in travel writing and fashion descriptions, where writers tend to list several robes at once.
Synonyms: gallabiyas, robes, garments