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Cap Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cap

[kæp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

headwear

A cap is a type of hat, typically with a visor and a rounded crown. Caps are often worn as a fashion accessory or as part of a uniform. They can be made from various materials such as cotton, wool, or polyester.

Synonyms

beanie, hat, headgear.

Examples of usage

  • He always wears a baseball cap backwards.
  • She put on her cap to shield her face from the sun.
Context #2 | Noun

academic

In academia, a cap refers to the headgear worn during graduation ceremonies. It is often associated with a tassel that signifies the graduate's field of study.

Synonyms

graduation hat, mortarboard, tassel cap.

Examples of usage

  • The graduates threw their caps in the air in celebration.
  • She proudly wore her cap and gown to receive her diploma.
Context #3 | Verb

limit

To cap something means to set a limit or restrict it. It is often used in the context of capping expenses, capping prices, or capping the number of participants.

Synonyms

control, limit, restrict.

Examples of usage

  • The company decided to cap the number of attendees at the event.
  • The government capped the maximum price for the new medicine.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Caps have evolved from purely functional headgear to fashion statements, often worn with casual outfits.
  • Baseball caps became popular in the early 20th century and are now a global icon of sports and casual style.
  • Different cultures have their unique variations of caps, such as the 'beret' in France and the 'kufi' in West Africa.

Historical Significance

  • During the 18th century, caps were worn by men and women alike, often embroidered and decorated to reflect social status.
  • The 'Phrygian cap,' known as the liberty cap, became a symbol of freedom during the French Revolution.
  • World War I pilots wore leather caps to protect themselves from cold and wind, which influenced aviation fashion.

Science

  • There are scientific terms that use 'cap' such as 'capillary action,' which describes how liquids move in tiny spaces.
  • In the field of genetics, a 'cap' refers to a modification on the end of RNA molecules, crucial for protein creation.
  • Caps can refer to protective covers in mechanical systems, playing an essential role in preventing damage and contamination.

Pop Culture

  • Caps have made appearances in various movies, like the iconic baseball cap worn by characters in 'A League of Their Own.'
  • In music culture, many artists, such as hip-hop performers, frequently wear caps as part of their signature style.
  • The phrase 'no cap' has emerged in recent slang, meaning 'no lie' or to be truthful, showing how language evolves.

Origin of 'cap'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Latin 'cappa,' meaning a hooded cloak, which shows how head coverings have evolved.
  • In Middle English, 'cappe' referred to various types of hats, showcasing the word's versatility over time.
  • Cap has been used in different languages, such as 'kap' in German or 'cive' in French, indicating its widespread use in culture.

The word 'cap' has a long history with origins dating back to the 14th century. It is derived from the Latin word 'cappa' meaning 'hood' or 'cloak'. Over time, the meaning of 'cap' evolved to refer to various types of headgear worn for different purposes, from protection against the elements to a symbol of status or affiliation.

See also: capable, capacity, cape, caplet, caps, capstone, recap.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,640, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.