GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   Caul (ka̤l), n. [OE. calle, kelle, prob. fr. F. cale; cf. Ir. calla a veil.]
   1. A covering of network for the head, worn by women; also, a net.  Spenser.
   
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   2. (Anat.) The fold of membrane loaded with fat, which covers more or less of the intestines in mammals; the great omentum. See Omentum.
   
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   The caul serves for the warming of the lower belly. Ray.
   
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   3. A part of the amnion, one of the membranes enveloping the fetus, which sometimes is round the head of a child at its birth; -- called also a veil.
   
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   It is deemed lucky to be with a caul or membrane over the face. This caul is esteemed an infallible preservative against drowning . . . According to Chrysostom, the midwives frequently sold it for magic uses. Grose.
   
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   I was born with a caul, which was advertised for sale, in the newspapers, at the low price of fifteen guineas. Dickens.
   
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