garb
UK: ɡɑːb | US: ɡɑːrb
n. clothing or dress, especially of a distinctive or special kind
vt. to dress in distinctive clothing
The word "garb" traces back to Old French garbe, meaning "grace" or "elegance," which evolved to denote "fashionable attire." It entered Middle English in the 14th century, retaining its focus on distinctive or stylized clothing. The shift from abstract "grace" to concrete "dress" reflects the cultural association between elegance and outward appearance. Unlike many clothing-related terms, "garb" often implies intentionality or symbolism in dress (e.g., ceremonial garb).
The judge appeared in traditional judicial garb.
Medieval knights wore heavy protective garb into battle.
She was garbed in a flowing silk sari for the festival.
The actors changed into historical garb for the play.
Tribal elders donned ceremonial garb for the ritual.