cloche

Cloche is a term derived from the French word for bell and is used to describe several bell-shaped coverings or forms in different domains. In horticulture, a cloche is a transparent dome or hood placed over plants to trap heat and moisture, protecting young seedlings from cold and pests. They are typically made of glass or clear plastic and can be freestanding or supported by a frame; venting mechanisms may be included to regulate humidity and temperature. Cloche-style protection can range from simple, inexpensive domes to small-scale greenhouse structures, and remains common in home gardens and horticultural trials.

In cuisine, a cloche refers to a domed lid that covers a hot dish to keep it warm and to trap aromas until service. The cloche may be metal, ceramic, or glass and is often lifted at the table to reveal the dish to diners, a presentation technique known as cloche service. In professional kitchens, cloches help preserve temperature and moisture and may contribute to dramatic presentation.

The cloche hat, a close-fitting bell-shaped woman’s hat, emerged in the 1910s and became a defining fashion accessory of the 1920s. Named for its bell-like silhouette, it remained in vogue for several years before giving way to other styles.

Etymology: The word cloche comes from the French cloche, meaning bell, reflecting the shape shared by the protective domes and the hat.