'cloak' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'cloque', where 'cloque' meant 'bell' or 'cloak'.

'cloque' transformed into the Middle English word 'cloke', and eventually became the modern English word 'cloak'.

Initially, it meant 'a bell-shaped garment', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a garment worn over clothes for warmth or concealment'.