skullcap

American  

[skuhl-kap] / ˈskʌlˌkæp /

noun

1. a small, brimless close-fitting cap, often made of silk or velvet, worn on the crown of the head, as for religious functions.

2. the domelike roof of the skull.

3. Botany. any of various plants belonging to the genus Scutellaria, of the mint family, having a calyx resembling a helmet.

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skullcap British  

/ ˈskʌlˌkæp /

noun

1. a rounded brimless hat fitting the crown of the head

2. the nontechnical name for calvaria

3. any of various perennial plants of the genus Scutellaria, esp S. galericulata, that typically have helmet-shaped flowers: family Lamiaceae (labiates)

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Etymology

Origin of skullcap

First recorded in 1675–85; skull + cap ¹

Compare meaning

How does skullcap compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• skullcap vs. beanie

Example Sentences

As co-President of the Penn Israel Public Affairs Committee, he wears his bright blue skullcap proudly, but admits it's a day-by-day choice whether to continue displaying his faith in such a way.

From BBC • Dec. 9, 2023

The remains, which include a skullcap, tooth, and thighbone, are the most famous items on a list of treasures Indonesia wants back.

From Science Magazine • Oct. 26, 2022

The prisoner, who has a long gray beard and wore a traditional skullcap, calmly answered various “yes sir” or “yes, your honor” when questioned by the military judge, Air Force Lt.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 13, 2022

He grew religious in middle age, appearing on screen in a skullcap until finally withdrawing from popular culture for an ascetic life of biblical scholarship in Jerusalem.

From Reuters • Jun. 2, 2022

For as long as I could remember, whenever I was in pain, whether from a cut or a toothache, Mother would make a tincture of lobelia and skullcap.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover

Related Words

• cranium
• scalp