toga

to·ga

noun \ˈtō-gə\

: a long, loose piece of clothing that was worn by people in ancient Rome

Full Definition of TOGA

:  the loose outer garment worn in public by citizens of ancient Rome; also :  a similar loose wrap or a professional, official, or academic gown

— to·gaed \-gəd\ adjective

Illustration of TOGA

Origin of TOGA

Latin; akin to Latin tegere to cover — more at thatch

First Known Use: 1600

Rhymes with TOGA

yoga

toga

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Imperial Roman toga on Tiberius (reigned 14–37 CE); in the Louvre, Paris—Giraudon/Art Resource, New York

Loose, draped outer garment adopted by the Romans from the Etruscans. It was originally worn by both sexes of all classes, but was gradually abandoned by women, then by labourers, and finally by patricians, but throughout the history of the empire it remained the state dress, the garment of the emperor and high officials. Made from an oval piece of fabric, the toga had voluminous folds that made activity difficult and thus became the distinctive garment of the upper classes. The colour of the toga worn depended on class, age, and the character of such special events as mourning and triumphs.