What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cape
Example
She wore a beautiful red cape over her evening gown. [cape: noun]
Example
The superhero swooped in, his cape billowing behind him. [cape: noun]
cloak
Example
The traveler wrapped himself in a thick cloak to shield against the cold. [cloak: noun]
Example
The spy concealed his identity under a black cloak. [cloak: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cape is more commonly used than cloak in everyday language. Cape is versatile and can be used in various contexts, including fashion and superheroes. Cloak, on the other hand, is less common and is often associated with historical or fantasy settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cape and cloak?
While cape can be used in both formal and informal contexts, cloak is generally considered more formal due to its association with historical or fantasy themes.