Definition

Noun: A tricorne (also spelled tricorn) is a style of hat that was popular in the 18th century. It is characterized by its broad brim, which is permanently folded or "cocked" upwards on three sides to form three distinct points or corners. This design gave the hat its name, from the Latin elements tri- (three) and cornu (horn).

Usage

The word tricorne is used to refer specifically to this historical piece of headwear. It is a countable noun. * The general wore a decorated tricorne as part of his formal uniform. * Portraits from the 1700s often show gentlemen in wigs and tricornes. * The tricorne is an iconic symbol of the American Revolutionary War era.

Advanced Usage

• As a historical descriptor: The term is primarily used in historical, theatrical, or costume contexts to accurately describe period attire.
  • The reenactors' authenticity was noted, down to the correct stitching on their tricornes.

Variants and Related Words

• Tricorn: An alternative, and more common, spelling of tricorne.
• Cocked hat: A general term for any hat with the brim turned up, which includes the tricorne as its most famous type.
• Bicorn: A similar style of cocked hat with the brim turned up on only two sides, forming two points.

Synonyms

• Cocked hat
• Three-cornered hat

Antonyms

• There is no direct antonym, but hats with a flat, uncocked brim (e.g., a wide-brimmed hat) or no brim (e.g., a cap) are functionally and stylistically opposite.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• "As mad as a hatter": While not directly about the tricorne, this idiom originates from the same historical period when hat-makers (including those making tricornes) used mercury in the felting process, which could cause neurological damage and erratic behavior.

Noun

1. cocked hat with the brim turned up to form three points