mantua

¹

[ man-choo-uh ]

noun

1. a woman's loose gown worn as a robe or overdress in the early 18th century.
2. a mantle.

Mantua

²

[ man-choo-uh ]

noun

1. a city in E Lombardy, in N Italy: birthplace of Vergil.

Mantua

¹

/ ˈmæntjʊə /

noun

1. a city in N Italy, in E Lombardy, surrounded by lakes: birthplace of Virgil. Pop: 47 790 (2001) Italian nameMantova

mantua

²

/ ˈmæntjʊə /

noun

1. a loose gown of the 17th and 18th centuries, worn open in front to show the underskirt

Other Words From

• Mantu·an adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of mantua¹

1670–80; variant of manteau, by association with Mantua

Word History and Origins

Origin of mantua¹

C17: changed from manteau , through the influence of Mantua

Example Sentences

The fabric of Taryn’s is gorgeous, the cut of her mantua and stomacher perfect.

From Literature

Then comes a petticoat, then a skirt, and a corset, and a mantua — a gown that goes on like a jacket, and drapes over the skirt.

From Seattle Times

“Madam,” I pressed, “I have it on the best authority that among the finest mantua makers of London, the pannier is no longer the mode.”

From Literature

Then shoes are buckled, stockings are gartered, and a black mantua placed gently round her shoulders.

From Project Gutenberg

One was much taken up with shopping and visits to her mantua- maker; several were engrossed with fancy work; some went out a great deal; all had an air of dawdling.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• fiber
• taffeta
• thread
• tulle