green gown

noun

archaic
: a gown symbolically acquired at illicit loss of virginity
many a green gown has been given, many a kiss, both odd and even—Robert Herrick †1674

Word History

Etymology

so called from the grass stains traditionally acquired when illicit love is made

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of green gown was circa 1586

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Cite this Entry

“Green gown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/green%20gown. Accessed 21 Mar. 2023.

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