n. [ F. chaperon. See Chape, Cape, Cap. ] 1. A hood; especially, an ornamental or an official hood. [ 1913 Webster ]

His head and face covered with a chaperon, out of which there are but two holes to look through. Howell. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A device placed on the foreheads of horses which draw the hearse in pompous funerals. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. A matron who accompanies a young lady in public, for propriety, or as a guide and protector. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Chaperoned p. pr. & vb. n. Chaperoning. ] [ Cf. F. chaperonner, fr. chaperon. ] To attend in public places as a guide and protector; to matronize. [ 1913 Webster ]

Fortunately Lady Bell Finley, whom I had promised to chaperon, sent to excuse herself. Hannah More. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. Attendance of a chaperon on a lady in public; protection afforded by a chaperon. [ 1913 Webster ]