Snood Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snood

[snud ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

head covering

A snood is a type of headgear, often fashioned as a net or fabric bag, that secures the hair. Traditionally worn by women, it can serve as both a fashion accessory and a practical means of keeping hair tidy. In some cultures, snoods can also have cultural or religious significance.

Synonyms

bun holder, hairnet, headscarf.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautiful snood to the wedding.
  • The baker's snood kept her hair away from the dough.
  • In medieval times, women often wore snoods as part of their attire.
Context #2 | Noun

animal anatomy

In zoology, the term snood refers to a fleshy growth on the head of certain birds, particularly turkeys. This unique feature serves a role in mating displays. The prominence and color can change based on the bird's emotional state.

Synonyms

wattle.

Examples of usage

  • The turkey's snood turned bright red during the mating season.
  • Birdwatchers noted the size of the snood while observing the males.
  • The snood of the turkey flapped as it strutted through the field.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Snoods became widely popular in the 1940s and 50s as a stylish way to keep hair tidy.
  • Modern snoods are often made from soft, stretchy fabrics, and can be worn for warmth or decoration.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, head coverings symbolize modesty or tradition, with the snood being a unique variant.
  • Snoods have been used in different cultural festivities, reflecting regional fashion trends and identity.

Pop Culture

  • In some video games, characters may wear snoods as part of their costume, making them a trendy accessory in gaming culture.
  • Fashion influencers on social media platforms often showcase snoods as versatile fashion items, pairing them with various outfits.

Psychology

  • Wearing a snood can evoke feelings of comfort and security, similar to how people feel when wearing familiar clothing items.
  • Accessories like snoods can significantly influence self-expression and how individuals are perceived by others.

Origin of 'snood'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'snood' comes from the Old English word 'snod', which means 'to bind or tie'.
  • Historically, the term was used to describe a kind of hairnet worn by women in medieval times.

The word 'snood' originates from the Old English term 'snod,' which means a 'string or thread that binds the hair.' It made its way into Middle English as 'snood' during the 15th century, taking on the meaning related to hair accessories. Initially used to referred to a hair net or covering that was used by women to manage their hair, the term has evolved over time. In the 19th century, the snood became more decorative and began to incorporate various materials and embellishments, making it a popular fashion item among women. Additionally, the term gained a secondary meaning in the field of ornithology, where it refers to the fleshy growth found on the heads of certain birds, particularly turkeys. This dual usage demonstrates the rich evolution of the word in both fashion and animal anatomy.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,348, 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.