shawl

1 of 2

noun

: a square or oblong usually fabric garment or wrapper used especially as a covering for the head or shoulders

shawl

2 of 2

verb

shawled; shawling; shawls

transitive verb

: to wrap in or as if in a shawl

Examples of shawl in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Each layer—from skirt to shawl—signals something: marital status, regional origin, season. Natalie Stoclet, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025 Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, Kelsea Ballerini and Miranda Lambert Added to the 2025 ACM Awards Performance Lineup The singer opted for a much edgier look that evening, wearing a plunging black Tamara Ralph mini dress with a floor grazing white satin shawl and black pumps to complete the outfit. Starr Bowenbank, People.com, 9 May 2025
Verb
He was also known for living an ascetic lifestyle, often dressing in a loincloth and shawl only. Nayeli Lomeli, USA TODAY, 31 Aug. 2021 See All Example Sentences for shawl

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Persian shāl

First Known Use

Noun

1662, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1812, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shawl was in 1662

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shawl.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shawl. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

shawl

1 of 2 noun
: a square or oblong piece of woven or knitted fabric used especially as a covering for the head or shoulders

shawl

2 of 2 verb
: to wrap in or as if in a shawl

More from Merriam-Webster on shawl

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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