cloak bag

1 definition found

cloak bag - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Cloak \Cloak\ (kl[=o]k; 110), n. [Of. cloque cloak (from the
     bell-like shape), bell, F. cloche bell; perh. of Celtic
     origin and the same word as E. clock. See 1st Clock.]
     1. A loose outer garment, extending from the neck downwards,
        and commonly without sleeves. It is longer than a cape,
        and is worn both by men and by women.
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     2. That which conceals; a disguise or pretext; an excuse; a
        fair pretense; a mask; a cover.
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              No man is esteemed any ways considerable for policy
              who wears religion otherwise than as a cloak.
                                                    --South.
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     Cloak bag, a bag in which a cloak or other clothes are
        carried; a portmanteau. --Shak.
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