chapeau
Definition
Noun: A shaped covering for the head, typically with a crown and a brim, designed as protection from the weather or worn as a fashion accessory. It is a formal or somewhat old-fashioned term for a hat.
Usage
The word "chapeau" is used to refer to a hat, often implying a degree of formality, style, or a specific design. It is less common in everyday modern English than the simpler word "hat" and can carry a sophisticated or historical nuance.
Examples
- She tipped her chapeau politely as she entered the room.
- For the garden party, a wide-brimmed chapeau is essential to shield from the sun.
- The painting from the 1920s shows a woman wearing an elaborate feathered chapeau.
Advanced Usage
- "Chapeau!": An exclamation (borrowed from French) used to express admiration, congratulations, or "hats off" to someone for an achievement.
- You solved that complex problem in minutes? Chapeau!
- "To raise/tip one's chapeau": A gesture of greeting, respect, or acknowledgement.
- The gentleman raised his chapeau to the ladies.
Variants and Related Words
- Hat (n): The common, general term for a head covering.
- Headgear (n): A broader term for any covering or item worn on the head.
- Millinery (n): The art, business, or products of hat-making.
Synonyms
- Hat
- Headpiece
- Lid (informal)
- Bonnet (specifically for certain styles, often women's)
Antonyms
- Bareheaded (adj): The state of not wearing a hat.
Related Phrases
- At the drop of a hat: Immediately, without hesitation.
- He's always ready to help at the drop of a hat.
- To pass the hat (around): To collect money from a group of people.
- They passed the hat around to buy a gift for the retiring teacher.
- To keep something under one's hat: To keep something secret.
- This information is confidential, so please keep it under your hat.
Noun
-
headdress that protects the head from bad weather; has shaped crown and usually a brim
