pallium

/ˈpæliəm/
noun
  1. A large, woolen cloak worn by men in ancient Greece and Rome.
    • The museum displayed a replica of a Greek pallium made from undyed wool.
    • The Roman senator wrapped his pallium tightly against the cold wind.
    • In ancient art, philosophers are often depicted wearing a simple pallium.
  2. A white woolen band with black crosses, worn by the Pope and archbishops as a symbol of authority.
    • The pallium is made from the wool of lambs blessed on the feast of Saint Agnes.
    • The new archbishop received the pallium during a special ceremony at the Vatican.
    • In Catholic tradition, the pallium represents the yoke of Christ.
  3. The cerebral cortex, especially the outer layer of the brain.
    • Damage to the pallium can affect memory and decision-making.
    • Scientists study the development of the pallium in different animal species.
    • The pallium is responsible for higher cognitive functions in mammals.
Synonyms