What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kirtle
Example
The queen wore a beautiful kirtle made of silk and embroidered with gold thread. [kirtle: noun]
Example
She was dressed in a simple kirtle with a linen underdress. [kirtle: adjective]
gown
Example
She looked stunning in her white wedding gown. [gown: noun]
Example
The actress wore a beautiful red gown to the awards ceremony. [gown: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gown is more commonly used than kirtle in everyday language. Gown is a versatile term that covers a wide range of formal dresses, while kirtle is less common and refers to a specific type of medieval-style dress.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between kirtle and gown?
Gown is typically associated with a formal and elegant tone, while kirtle is more associated with historical or cultural contexts and may be less formal.