noun

skullcap

SKUL-kap

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Skullcap (noun) means a small, close-fitting cap without a brim that covers the head from the forehead to the back of the neck. Example: “He wore a plain black skullcap to the service.”

noun

A small, close-fitting cap without a brim that covers the head from the forehead to the back of the neck.

"He wore a plain black skullcap to the service."

"Cyclists sometimes wear a thin skullcap under their helmets."

"She knitted a woollen skullcap for the winter."

anatomy The upper part of the skull that covers the cavity containing the brain.

"The surgeon carefully removed the skullcap to access the brain."

"The skullcap protects the cranial cavity from injury."

botany Any of several flowering plants in the genus Scutellaria.

"Skullcap is sometimes used in herbal teas."

"The gardener planted skullcap alongside other flowering herbs."

How to use skullcap

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA skullcap is a small, brimless cap that fits closely over the top of the head.

When to use it

Skullcap can refer to headwear, a part of the skull, or a plant, so the surrounding context shows which sense is meant.

Memory tip

The anatomical and botanical senses appear mainly in specialist writing, not everyday speech.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

wear a skullcap woollen skullcap black skullcap skullcap plant

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “skullcap” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

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Can you complete this real example?

He wore a plain black _____ to the service.

Etymology

Skullcap is a straightforward compound of skull and cap, naming a cap that fits closely over the top of the skull.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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helmetflower calvaria

Frequently asked questions

What is a skullcap?

A skullcap is a small, brimless cap that covers the top of the head.

Is a skullcap the same as a yarmulke?

A yarmulke is a type of skullcap traditionally worn for religious reasons, and kippah is another name for it.

What does skullcap mean in anatomy?

In anatomy, the skullcap is the upper part of the skull that covers the cavity holding the brain.

What is the meaning of skullcap?

"skullcap" (noun) means a small, close-fitting cap without a brim that covers the head from the forehead to the back of the neck.