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Hood: meaning, definitions and examples

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hood

 

[ hʊd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

head covering

A hood is a covering for the head and neck that can be part of a coat or jacket, or a separate piece of clothing. Hoods are often used to protect the head from rain, wind, or cold weather.

Synonyms

capuche, cowl, head covering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hood

Similar to the first entry, but noting that 'hood' can also refer to a slang term for neighborhood or area, often implying a lower-income urban district. This usage has a negative connotation.

  • Many talented musicians come from the hood.
  • She grew up in a tough hood.
capuche

A French term often used in English to describe a fashionable or stylish hood, usually in the context of high fashion or French culture.

  • The model wore a coat with a sleek capuche on the runway.
  • Her designer jacket featured a chic capuche.
cowl

Refers to a large, loose hood, especially one forming part of a monk's habit. It can also denote the hood-shaped covering on certain objects, such as chimneys.

  • The monk drew his cowl over his head as he entered the chapel.
  • The old chimney was covered with a rusted cowl.
head covering

A broad and general term used to describe any item that covers the head, including hats, scarves, hoods, and more. It is often used in formal or inclusive contexts.

  • The school has policies regarding head coverings for religious reasons.
  • Proper head covering is required in certain work environments for safety.

Examples of usage

  • The hood of his jacket kept him warm in the cold wind.
  • She pulled up her hood to shield herself from the rain.
  • I always wear a hood when it's raining outside.
Context #2 | Noun

criminal organization

In slang, 'hood' can refer to a neighborhood, especially one known for crime or as the territory of a specific gang or criminal organization.

Synonyms

ghetto, neighborhood, slum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hood

Informal term for a neighborhood, especially in urban areas. It often carries a sense of local camaraderie but can also have connotations of poverty and crime.

  • I've lived in this hood my entire life
  • Our hood is known for its vibrant street art
neighborhood

A more general and neutral term referring to a specific area or community where people live. This word can describe areas both urban and suburban.

  • We moved to a quiet neighborhood with lots of parks
  • Our neighborhood often hosts community events
ghetto

Refers to a part of a city, often in poor condition, inhabited by minority groups. It has a strong negative connotation and is often associated with poverty, crime, and social neglect.

  • She grew up in the ghetto and worked hard to get out
  • Many ghetto areas are in need of economic revitalization
slum

Describes an overcrowded urban area marked by poor living conditions. It has a very negative connotation, implying extreme poverty and lack of basic services.

  • They are working on a project to improve the slums
  • The living conditions in the slum are extremely challenging

Examples of usage

  • He grew up in the rough part of the hood.
  • The hood is controlled by a notorious gang.
  • The police cracked down on crime in the hood.

Translations

Translations of the word "hood" in other languages:

🇵🇹 capô

🇮🇳 ढक्कन

🇩🇪 Haube

🇮🇩 tudung

🇺🇦 капот

🇵🇱 maska

🇯🇵 フード

🇫🇷 capot

🇪🇸 capó

🇹🇷 kaput

🇰🇷 후드

🇸🇦 غطاء محرك السيارة

🇨🇿 kapota

🇸🇰 kapota

🇨🇳 发动机罩

🇸🇮 pokrov motorja

🇮🇸 húfa

🇰🇿 капот

🇬🇪 კაპოტი

🇦🇿 kapot

🇲🇽 capó

Etymology

The word 'hood' has a long history, dating back to Old English as 'hod'. It originally referred to a protective covering for the head, which evolved into the modern usage of a head covering attached to a garment. The slang usage of 'hood' to refer to a neighborhood with a reputation for crime emerged in American English in the 20th century, particularly associated with urban areas.

See also: hoodlum, hoodwink.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,999 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.