Basic Details
Word: Gown
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A long dress worn for formal occasions or by professionals, such as a lawyer or a doctor.
Synonyms: Dress, robe, outfit
Antonyms: Casual wear, shorts, trousers
Idioms and Phrases
- All gown and no action: Someone who looks impressive but does not deliver; they might dress up but lack substance. Example: "She talks a big game about her plans, but it's all gown and no action."
- Gown up: To mature or grow up, especially regarding behaviour. Example: "After a few years in college, he really learned to gown up and take responsibility."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The bride looked stunning in her beautiful white gown on her wedding day.
Example 2: At the graduation ceremony, all the students wore their gowns and caps to celebrate their achievements.
Example 3: The doctor wore a gown to ensure cleanliness while checking the patient.
Fun Fact
The word "gown" originates from Middle English "goune" and was used in the 14th century to describe a garment made to be worn over a dress or other clothing.
Famous Quote
"Fashion is the armour to survive the reality of everyday life." - Bill Cunningham, where he emphasises the importance of how we dress, including gowns for special occasions.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "gown" mean?
a) A type of hat
b) A long dress for formal occasions
c) A pair of shoes
d) A casual outfit
Answer: b) A long dress for formal occasions
2. Which of these is a synonym of "gown"?
a) Robe
b) Shorts
c) T-shirt
d) Sweater
Answer: a) Robe
3. Which sentence uses "gown" correctly?
a) She wore her gown to the picnic.
b) The actress looked gorgeous in her red gown at the awards ceremony.
c) He bought a gown to wear to the football match.
d) Gown is my favourite colour.
Answer: b) The actress looked gorgeous in her red gown at the awards ceremony.
4. Which idiom means looking impressive without delivering?
a) Gown up
b) All gown and no action
c) All hands on deck
d) An earful of weather
Answer: b) All gown and no action
5. What is the opposite of "gown"?
a) Casual wear
b) Costume
c) Uniform
d) Gown
Answer: a) Casual wear
