scarlet hat

A cardinal wears a scarlet hat during a religious ceremony.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A cardinal's hat: "scarlet hat" refers to the distinctive red hat worn by Roman Catholic cardinals as a symbol of their office.
   • The office or rank of a cardinal: By extension, "scarlet hat" can denote the position or authority of a cardinal.

Usage Examples

• (The red hat given as a symbol of the cardinal's rank.)
• (He sought the office of cardinal.)

Advanced Usage

• "to receive the scarlet hat": to be appointed as a cardinal.

  • After years of service, the archbishop finally received the scarlet hat. (He was made a cardinal.)

• "the scarlet hat" as metonymy: used to represent the cardinalate itself.

  • The scarlet hat carries great influence within the Church hierarchy. (The position of cardinal holds significant power.)

Variants and Related Words

• Scarlet (adj): of a bright red colour.
  • The cardinal's robes were scarlet. (Bright red in colour.)
• Hat (n): a covering for the head.
  • He removed his hat as he entered the church. (Head covering.)

Synonyms

• Cardinal's biretta: a specific type of hat worn by cardinals, often square with three ridges.
• Red hat: another common term for the cardinal's scarlet hat.

Related Idioms

• Wear the scarlet hat: to hold the office of cardinal.
  • Few bishops ever wear the scarlet hat. (Few become cardinals.)