gown /ˈɡaʊ̯n/noun 8verb 1forms 3phrases 1 noun8 •A woman's ordinary outer dress, such as a calico or silk gown. •The official robe of certain professionals, clerics, and scholars, such as university students and officers, barristers, judges, etc.VVhat is he an honest man? the deuill he is, he is the Parson of the Towne, You thinke ther’s no knauerie hid vnder a black gowne, […] — 1593 •The dress of civil officers, as opposed to military officers. •The robe worn by a surgeon. •A loose wrapper worn by gentlemen within doors; a dressing gown. •The university community, especially as contrasted with the local populace.In the perennial town versus gown battles, townies win some violent battles, but the collegians are winning the war. •a long loose piece of clothing that hangs from the shoulders down over the body •Any sort of dress or garb. verb1 •To dress in a gown, to don or garb with a gown. formsgowned · gowning · gowns Phrases with gown town and gownOn the one hand, the members of the city, borough, or similar community near a university and, on the other hand, the students and faculty of the university itself, especially when understood as rivals in a state of tension or conflict.
