Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - cowl

 I. noun  Etymology: Middle English ~e, from Old English cugele, from Late Latin cuculla monk's hood, from Latin cucullus hood  Date: before 12th century  1.  a. a hood or long hooded cloak especially of a monk  b. a draped neckline on a woman's garment  2.  a. a chimney covering designed to improve the draft  b. the top portion of the front part of an automobile body forward of the two front doors to which are attached the windshield and instrument board  c. ~ing  II. transitive verb  Date: 1536 to cover with or as if with a ~ COWL  biographical name Jane 1883-1950 originally Grace Bailey American actress