guise Meaning, Definition & Usage

Guise noun

Etymology

OE. guise, gise, way, manner, F. guise, fr. OHG. wisa, G. weise. See Wise, n.

Definitions

1. Customary way of speaking or acting; custom; fashion; manner; behavior; mien; mode; practice; -- often used formerly in such phrases as: at his own guise; that is, in his own fashion, to suit himself. Chaucer.

   The swain replied, "It never was our guise To slight the poor, or aught humane despise." Pope.

2. External appearance in manner or dress; appropriate indication or expression; garb; shape.

   As then the guise was for each gentle swain. Spenser.

   A . . . specter, in a far more terrific guise than any which ever yet have overpowered the imagination. Burke.

3. Cover; cloak; as, under the guise of patriotism.