surplice Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a loose-fitting white ecclesiastical vestment with wide sleeves

WordNet

Sur"plice noun
Etymology
F. surplis, OF. surpeiz, LL. superpellicium; super over + pellicium, pelliceum, a robe of fur, L. pellicius made of skins. See Pelisse.
Definitions
  1. (Eccl.) A white garment worn over another dress by the clergy of the Roman Catholic, Episcopal, and certain other churches, in some of their ministrations.

Webster 1913