caul

noun

1
: the large fatty omentum covering the intestines (as of a cow, sheep, or pig)
2
: the inner fetal membrane of higher vertebrates especially when covering the head at birth

Examples of caul in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web And the child, Hallow, carries a caul. Time, 2 Apr. 2021 Less lucky was Gabriel, whose must-have ingredient was caul fat. oregonlive, 2 Apr. 2021 The Melancons are powerful and prosperous, thanks to their magical caul that has healing properties. Lizz Schumer, Good Housekeeping, 16 Dec. 2022 En caul is the term used when a baby is born inside the still-intact amniotic sac. Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE.com, 9 Mar. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'caul.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English calle net, omentum, probably from Old English cawl basket

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of caul was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near caul

Cite this Entry

“Caul.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/caul. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

caul

noun
1
2
: the inner embryonic membrane of higher vertebrates especially when covering the head at birth

More from Merriam-Webster on caul

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