Definition of cowl

• n. - A monk's hood; -- usually attached to the gown. The name was also applied to the hood and garment together.
• n. - A cowl-shaped cap, commonly turning with the wind, used to improve the draft of a chimney, ventilating shaft, etc.
• n. - A wire cap for the smokestack of a locomotive.
• n. - A vessel carried on a pole between two persons, for conveyance of water.