Definition

Noun: A lightweight, stiff hat traditionally made from the plaited leaves of the Carludovica palmata plant (commonly called the toquilla palm or Panama hat plant). It is characterized by its fine weave and typically has a flat or slightly indented crown and a brim.

Usage

The term "Panama hat" refers to the specific style of handwoven straw hat. It is used as a countable noun.

Examples

• She wore a classic Panama hat to shield her face from the sun.
• A good Panama hat is flexible enough to be rolled up and stored in a tube.
• He bought an authentic Panama hat as a souvenir from Ecuador.

Advanced Usage

• "Panama" as a shorthand: In fashion and casual contexts, the word "Panama" is often used alone to mean a Panama hat.
  • He tipped his Panama to greet the lady.

Variants and Related Words

• Panama (n.): A common shortened form for "Panama hat."
• Toquilla straw hat (n.): An alternative name that references the plant material.
• Jipijapa (n.): Another name, derived from a town in Ecuador known for hat production. (Note: This is a more specialized term.)
• Jellybean (n.): A specific style of Panama hat with a tall, straight-sided crown.

Synonyms

• Straw hat (n.): A general term for any hat made of straw; a Panama is a specific, finely-woven type of straw hat.
• Boater (n.): A different style of stiff straw hat with a flat crown and brim, but typically with a solid, hard finish and a ribbon, often associated with formal summer wear in the past.

Notes on Meaning

Despite its name, the Panama hat originates from Ecuador. It gained the name "Panama hat" in the 19th century because it was shipped from South America to Europe via Panama and became famous during the construction of the Panama Canal.

Noun

1. a stiff hat made of straw with a flat crown