Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
hair-shirt
noun
/ˈhɛːəʃɜːt/
Definition
A coarse shirt made of hair, worn next to the skin as a form of penance or self-discipline.
Examples
- He wore a hair-shirt as a sign of his commitment to a simpler life.
- In medieval times, many religious figures donned hair-shirts to show their devotion.
- She decided to wear a hair-shirt during the retreat to reflect on her values.
Meaning
The term ‘hair-shirt’ refers to a garment made from animal hair that is uncomfortable to wear, symbolizing humility and self-denial.
Synonyms
- penitential garment
- ascetic clothing
- self-denial attire
