Cincture
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The Cincture or Girdle is a liturgical accessory (and one of the vestments of the Roman Catholic church). It is a long, rope-like cord with tassled ends, tied around the waist outside the Alb. When worn by laypersons the color usually reflects that of the liturgical season. When worn by clergy, however, it is usually white. It symbolizes chastity and purity.
From Gawain and the Green Knight, "She swiftly slipped off the cincture of her gown / Which went round her waist under the wonderful mantle" (I. 1829)nl:Cingel