monastic habit

A monastic habit is the distinctive robe worn by monks, nuns, and other members of religious orders.

The garment typically includes a long tunic, a belt or cord, and often a hood or head covering.

Different orders wear different habits—Franciscans in brown, Dominicans in black and white, Carmelites in brown with white cloaks.

The habit signifies renunciation of worldly concerns and membership in a religious community: She took the habit at twenty-two.