superˈhumeral
[ad. late L. superhumerāle (Vulgate), neut. sing. (sc. vestīmentum) of *superhumerālis: see super 1 a and humeral. Cf. OF. superhumeral, It. superumerale, etc.]
An ecclesiastical vestment worn over the shoulders, as the Jewish ephod, or an amice or pallium; fig. a burden carried on the shoulders.
| 1606 Bp. Andrewes Serm. ii. (1631) 13 He..Endured them; and endured, for them heavie things; a strange Superhumerall, the print whereof was to be seene on his shoulders. [1688 Holme Armoury iii. iv. 187/1 The Amictus, or Superhumerale, which like the Ephod of the Priests and Levites, or Vail covers the Head and Shoulders of the Priest.] 1868 Marriott Vestiar. Christ. xxix. 79 The Superhumeral or Ephod. This being so worn as to cover the shoulders, he [sc. Bede] regards it as typical of the labour of good works, of ‘the easy yoke, and light burden’. |