A cowl is an item of clothing consisting of a long, hooded garment with wide sleeves, often worn by monks.
Today, it is worn primarily by most Catholic and Anglican monks when participating in liturgical services.
Developed during the Early Middle Ages, the cowl became the formal garment for those in monastic life.
The cowl is generally worn in conformity with the color of the monk's tunic; other groups which follow the Rule of St. Benedict, e.g., the Camaldolese wearing white.
Today, cowls are primarily worn by Catholic and Anglican monks when participating in liturgical services.