jilbab

Jilbab is a term used in Islamic contexts to describe a woman's outer garment that covers the body. The word originates from Arabic and generally refers to a loose, full-length cloak or coat worn over clothing to conceal the shape of the body. In Islamic tradition, certain Qur'anic passages are understood as guiding women to wear garments such as the jilbab in public to maintain modesty; the verses reference drawing the jilabib over the body when in the presence of non-family members. The exact style and interpretation of jilbab vary widely across cultures and historical periods.

Design and usage vary by region and context. A jilbab is typically a long, loose-fitting outer garment that covers the body from shoulders to feet, often with long sleeves. It can be a single-piece cloak, a long open-front coat, or a dress that includes an attached head covering, and may or may not include a hood. In some places, the term jilbab specifically denotes a particular type of cloak worn over other clothes, while in others it can refer to a full outfit that includes the headscarf and sometimes a veil.

Relationship to other modest garments is nuanced. Jilbab is distinct from hijab, which generally denotes a headscarf that covers the hair and neck while leaving the face visible, and from abaya or chador, which are other forms of outer garments used in different regions. In practice, some women wear jilbabs as part of a broader modest dress code, while others may wear hijab or other styles independently. Adoption of jilbab varies by personal choice, cultural norms, and, in some countries, legal or school regulations.