Căul, n.

n. [Probably a modification of cowl, q. v. Cf. A-S. caul, cavel, caul, caewfel, basket.]

1Sense 1. A net or covering for the head. Spenser.

2Sense 2. (Anat.) A membrane covering the greater part of the lower intestines; the omentum.

The caul serves for the warming of the lower belly, like an apron. Ray.

3Sense 3. A part of the amnion or membrane enveloping the fetus, which sometimes is round the head of a child at its birth.

It is deemed lucky to be born with a caul or membrane over the face. This caul is esteemed an infallible preservative against drowning. According to Chrysostom, the midwives frequently sold it for magic uses. Grose.

I was born with a caul, which was advertised for sale, in the newspapers, at the low price of fifteen guineas. Dickens.