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.

---

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)

---

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

Since 2004, middle and high school students in France have been barred from wearing “ostentatious” symbols that have a clear religious meaning, like a Catholic cross, a Jewish skullcap or a Muslim head scarf.

From New York Times • Mar. 28, 2024

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 skullcap Jews wear as a reminder of God’s presence fell off during the Oct.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 1, 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

A bearded man wearing the Mussalman skullcap peered out.

From "The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams" by Daniel Nayeri

Related Words

• cranium
• scalp