Biretta: meaning, definitions and examples

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biretta

 

[ bɪˈrɛtə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious attire

A biretta is a square, three-cornered hat that is traditionally worn by clergy members in the Roman Catholic Church and some other Christian denominations. It is typically made of black pleated fabric and may feature a pom or tassel on top. The biretta is often worn during liturgical ceremonies and symbolizes the wearer’s clerical status.

Synonyms

clerical hat, priest's hat

Examples of usage

  • The priest donned his biretta before the mass.
  • During the procession, the bishop wore a ornate biretta.
  • Traditionally, the biretta is associated with academic and clerical dignity.

Translations

Translations of the word "biretta" in other languages:

🇵🇹 biretta

🇮🇳 बिरेटा

🇩🇪 Biretta

🇮🇩 biretta

🇺🇦 бретта

🇵🇱 biretta

🇯🇵 ビレッタ

🇫🇷 birette

🇪🇸 biretta

🇹🇷 biretta

🇰🇷 비레타

🇸🇦 بريتا

🇨🇿 biretta

🇸🇰 biretta

🇨🇳 圣职者帽

🇸🇮 bireta

🇮🇸 biretta

🇰🇿 биретта

🇬🇪 ბირეტა

🇦🇿 biretta

🇲🇽 biretta

Etymology

The term 'biretta' is derived from the Italian word 'biretta', which itself has roots in the Latin term 'birettum', a diminutive form of 'birrus' meaning a hooded cloak. The biretta became prominent in the late Middle Ages, associated with scholars and clergy as a sign of their education and office. Over time, it became specifically linked to the Catholic clergy, particularly for priests and bishops. Liturgical practices and attire have evolved, but the biretta has remained a traditional symbol within the Church, often signifying the rank and role of the clergy member wearing it. Its design, typically a square shape with three peaks, varies slightly among different regions and denominations, but its significance as a clerical garment has persisted.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,959, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.