cowls

Cowls are items named for a common garment feature and used in several contexts, including clothing, religious dress, and ventilation covers. In fashion and knitting, a cowl is a warm neck covering that forms a loop or tube worn around the neck. It may be a plain circular scarf or a larger, draped piece that can be pulled up to shield the lower face. In outerwear, a cowl can refer to the hood component of a hooded garment, such as a cowl-neck sweater or a monk’s habit, where the hood is a prominent feature.

Historically, cowls were an element of monastic dress, where a large, draped hood formed part of the habit and provided practical shelter in cold or wet weather.

In architecture and engineering, cowls are protective or guiding covers. A chimney cowl sits atop a flue to shed rain and deter birds while aiding draft. In aviation and other machinery, engine cowls or cowling enclose and streamline engines, reducing drag and protecting moving parts.