skullcap

[ skuhl-kap ]

noun

1. a small, brimless close-fitting cap, often made of silk or velvet, worn on the crown of the head, as for religious functions.
2. the domelike roof of the skull.
3. Botany. any of various plants belonging to the genus Scutellaria, of the mint family, having a calyx resembling a helmet.

skullcap

/ ˈskʌlˌkæp /

noun

1. a rounded brimless hat fitting the crown of the head
2. the nontechnical name for calvaria
3. any of various perennial plants of the genus Scutellaria, esp S. galericulata, that typically have helmet-shaped flowers: family Lamiaceae (labiates)

Word History and Origins

Origin of skullcap¹

First recorded in 1675–85; skull + cap ¹

Example Sentences

Elias Rose Gordon, 23, a member wearing a skullcap in the colors of the Palestinian flag, said that Eurovision was “hypocritical” for allowing Israel into the contest when it had banned Russia.

From New York Times

When the eggs hatch, Mr Gandhi is seen feeding "funds" to the chick which is wearing a skullcap and has a menacing expression.

From BBC

Some students wore kaffiyehs, the traditional Palestinian scarf, while others wore Jewish skullcaps.

From New York Times

The faithful gathered in an imposing modernist building, thousands of men in skullcaps and women in veils sitting shoulder to shoulder.

From New York Times

Since 2004, middle and high school students in France have been barred from wearing “ostentatious” symbols that have a clear religious meaning, like a Catholic cross, a Jewish skullcap or a Muslim head scarf.

From New York Times

Related Words

• cranium
• scalp