Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Pallium \Pal"li*um\, n.; pl. L. {Pallia}(?), E. {Palliums}. [L.
   See {Pall} the garment.]
   1. (Anc. Costume) A large, square, woolen cloak which
      enveloped the whole person, worn by the Greeks and by
      certain Romans. It is the Roman name of a Greek garment.

   2. (R.C.Ch.) A band of white wool, worn on the shoulders,
      with four purple crosses worked on it; a pall.

   Note: The wool is obtained from two lambs brought to the
         basilica of St. Agnes, Rome, and blessed. It is worn by
         the pope, and sent to patriarchs, primates, and
         archbishops, as a sign that they share in the plenitude
         of the episcopal office. Befoer it is sent, the pallium
         is laid on the tomb of St. Peter, where it remains all
         night.

   3. (Zo["o]l.)
      (a) The mantle of a bivalve. See {Mantle}.
      (b) The mantle of a bird.