Chap"er*on (?), n. [F. chaperon. See Chape, Cape, Cap.]
1.
A hood; especially, an ornamental or an official hood.
His head and face covered with a chaperon, out of which there are but two holes to look through.
Howell.
2.
A divice placed on the foreheads of horses which draw the hearse in pompous funerals.
3.
A matron who accompanies a young lady in public, for propriety, or as a guide and protector.
© Webster 1913.
Chap"er*on, 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.
Fortunately Lady Bell Finley, whom I had promised to chaperon, sent to excuse herself.
Hannah More.
© Webster 1913.