Beanies

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈbiːniz/

Definitions

1. A type of close-fitting hat made of soft material, often wool or knitted fabric, that covers the head and can keep it warm
2. A casual headwear item typically worn in colder weather, designed to fit snugly around the head without a brim
3. A comfortable and stylish accessory, often used in informal settings, characterized by its soft structure and warmth during chilly conditions

Etymology: "Beanies" is the plural of "beanie", and the trail runs through an old slang word for the head. Old English "bēan" meant "bean" in the plant sense, but its Middle English descendant "bene" also came to be used for the head, a usage the word "bean" still carries in informal English. "Beanie" adds the diminutive suffix "-ie", so the name amounts to "little head" and was originally a sort of affectionate nickname for the skull. The hat name is a playful echo of that slang. A close-fitting cap that sits snugly on the head became known as a "beanie," since it is literally a little head covering. The suffix shows up in many informal English words, such as "hankie" and "movie," which is why the form sounds so chatty.

Synonyms: caps, hats