Caftan

/ˈkæftæn/ noun

Definition

A long, loose robe or coat worn in Middle Eastern, North African, and Central Asian cultures, often with long sleeves and a sash.

Etymology

From Turkish 'kaftan,' which came from Persian 'qaftān.' The garment was adopted across the Ottoman Empire and became iconic in Islamic and Central Asian dress during the medieval period.

Kelly Says

The caftan's design brilliantly solved problems—loose fit allowed movement in hot climates, long sleeves protected from sun, and the sash could hold tools or money, making it one of history's most practical power outfits.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.