dunce cap

A "dunce cap" is a conical hat historically used in schools as a form of punishment for students perceived to be slow learners or poorly behaved.

Definition

B2Education

(historical)A tall, cone-shaped hat used in the past as a punishment for students considered slow learners or misbehaved.

Example

  • In the 19th century, students who misbehaved might be forced to wear a dunce cap and sit in the corner.

B2Symbolism

(figurative)A representation of ignorance or lack of understanding, often used to mock someone's perceived stupidity.

Example

  • He felt like he was wearing a dunce cap after making such a simple mistake in front of everyone.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "dunce cap":

dunce hatflat capjockey's capmuffin capcocked hatcabbage head