lawn sleeves

noun

1. (used with a plural verb) the sleeves of lawn forming part of the dress of an Anglican bishop.
2. (used with a singular verb) the office of an Anglican bishop.
3. (used with a singular or plural verb) an Anglican bishop or bishops.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lawn sleeves¹

First recorded in 1630–40

Example Sentences

A monarch without a crown, or a judge without robes, or a bishop without lawn sleeves, would never do for them.

From Project Gutenberg

It defended the poacher lad, but lost for the writer his lawn sleeves.

From Project Gutenberg

Gambroons and aprons and lawn sleeves won't go a-voyaging, depend upon it.

From Project Gutenberg

So the naked truth, carefully veiled from view in episcopal aprons and lawn-sleeves, was now displayed in all its native charm.

From Project Gutenberg

A preaching, prison-preaching, field-preaching esquire, strikes more than all the black gowns and lawn sleeves in the world.

From Project Gutenberg