Manteau (Man'-To). A cloak or mantle; specifically, a woman's cloak or outer garment, particularly one that is open in front and displaying the skirt or petticoat. The manteau is said to have been introduced into England by Henrietta, queen of Charles I. who is also credited with the first introduction of female labor for making the outer clothing for women. Manteau-making thereafter became a common female occupation, and indeed, the term came in time to comprise all kinds of dressmaking.