A
gown, from
medieval Latin gunna, is a usually loose outer
garment from knee- to full-length worn by men and women in
Europe from the early
Middle Ages to the 17th century, and continuing today in certain professions; later,
gown was applied to any full-length woman's garment consisting of a
bodice and attached
skirt. A long, loosely fitted gown called a
Banyan was worn by men in the 18th century as an informal coat.