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The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 (gcide)

Caul \Caul\ (k[add]l), n. [OE. calle, kelle, prob. fr. F. cale;
cf. Ir. calla a veil.]
1. A covering of network for the head, worn by women; also, a
net. --Spenser.
[1913 Webster]

2. (Anat.) The fold of membrane loaded with fat, which covers
more or less of the intestines in mammals; the great
omentum. See {Omentum}.
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The caul serves for the warming of the lower belly.
--Ray.
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3. A part of the amnion, one of the membranes enveloping the
fetus, which sometimes is round the head of a child at its
birth; -- called also a {veil}.
[1913 Webster PJC]

It is deemed lucky to be 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.
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I was born with a caul, which was advertised for
sale, in the newspapers, at the low price of fifteen
guineas. --Dickens.
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