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