Definition of "surplice" []

• A loose-fitting, white ecclesiastical gown with wide sleeves, worn over a cassock. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "In another context a surplice is an ecclesiastical vestment."
• "On weekdays he wore a smock-frock, which he called his surplice, with wonderful fancy stitches on the breast and back and sleeves."
• "I didn't know that was called a surplice bodice, but I've been looking for one pattern or ready to wear because I've always loved it."