I. ˈsərplə̇s, ˈsə̄p-, ˈsəip- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English surplis, from Old French surpliz, from Medieval Latin superpellicium, from Latin super- + Medieval Latin pellicium shepherd's coat of skins, from Latin, neuter of pellicius made of skins, from pellis skin; from the fact that it was originally worn over the fur coats customary in the churches of northern countries — more at fell
1. : a loose white ecclesiastical vestment with large open sleeves that generally extends to the knees in length and that usually is worn as a tunic over other garments by clergymen, acolytes, lay readers, and choristers in the Anglican, Roman Catholic, Moravian, and other churches
2. : the cotta worn by Roman Catholic clergymen
II. adjective
: having the neckline extended on each side from the shoulder often to the opposite side seam with the lines crossing in the center
a surplice collar
a surplice closing of a dress