Coifs

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of close-fitting head covering traditionally worn by women
2. A variant of a bonnet often used by religious or historical groups
3. Protective headwear that ties under the chin and is sometimes adorned or embellished

Etymology: The noun in question traces back to the Old French word "coife" or "coiffe," meaning a close-fitting cap or hood worn on the head. This term entered English around the late Middle Ages, particularly in the 14th or 15th century, during a period when head coverings were common both for practical and social reasons. The word originally described a simple linen or cloth cap, often worn under a helmet or as a modest indoor head covering. Its roots extend further to the Late Latin "cuffia," which also denoted a type of cap or hood. This Latin term likely arose from a Vulgar Latin formation related to "cuff," reflecting the garment’s enclosing nature around the head, much like a cuff encircles the wrist. Through these transitions, the meaning remained fairly stable, consistently referring to a snug head covering. In historical contexts, these caps were often associated with women’s attire, especially among nuns and maidservants, who wore them as a sign of modesty. In later centuries, the term sometimes appeared in legal or ceremonial settings, describing specific styles of headgear. The plural form "coifs" naturally followed English grammatical patterns for pluralization. Today, the word is less common but still appears in historical or literary references, evoking images of medieval and early modern fashion where such close-fitting caps were an everyday accessory.

Synonyms: hairstyles, hairdos, coiffures