1. Plural of pallium; cloaks or mantles worn in ancient Rome, especially by philosophers and scholars.
Usage: historical; classical
2. In the Roman Catholic Church, plural of pallium; vestments worn by the Pope and certain archbishops as a symbol of authority.
Usage: religious; ecclesiastical
3. In zoology, the mantle or outer covering of mollusks.
Usage: scientific; biology

Examples

• Ancient Greek philosophers were often depicted wearing pallia over their shoulders.
• The archbishops received their pallia during the ceremonial investiture.
• In mollusks, the pallia secrete the shell material.
• Roman scholars distinguished themselves by their pallia and simple dress.
• The Pope bestows pallia upon newly appointed archbishops as a sign of communion.