watch cap
Definition
Noun: A close-fitting, knitted cap, typically made of dark blue wool, designed to provide warmth and worn historically by sailors in cold or stormy weather conditions.
Usage
The term "watch cap" specifically refers to a type of functional headgear. It is used to describe the cap itself or to denote its association with maritime use. * The sailor pulled his watch cap down over his ears as the wind picked up. * For authentic cold-weather gear, the navy issued a classic watch cap.
Advanced Usage
- While traditionally maritime, "watch cap" can be used generically to describe any simple, knitted, close-fitting winter cap of a similar style, often in solid, dark colors.
- He lost his fashionable beanie and replaced it with a plain watch cap from the army surplus store.
Variants and Related Words
- Watch cap is a compound noun. There are no common variants of this specific term.
- Related items include:
- Beanie: A more general, modern term for a close-fitting knitted cap.
- Tuque (Canadian English): A term for a knitted winter cap, often with a pom-pom.
- Stocking cap: A term for a long, conical knitted cap.
Synonyms
- Knitted cap
- Ski cap (in a general context)
- Woolen cap
Antonyms
- Sun hat
- Visor
- Baseball cap
Related Phrases
- To don a watch cap: To put on a watch cap.
- The crew was ordered to don their watch caps as they entered the northern latitudes.
- Watch cap and peacoat: A phrase evoking classic naval cold-weather attire.
- His uniform of a watch cap and peacoat was perfect for the windy pier.
Noun
-
a knitted dark blue wool cap worn by seamen in cold or stormy weather
