Havelocks

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A style of headgear designed to shield the face and neck from sunlight, usually having a distinct back flap for extended coverage
2. This head covering often serves both practical purposes, such as protection from the sun, and specific aesthetic or uniform-related functions
3. A type of cloth headgear that covers the neck and the sides of the face to guard against sunlight

Etymology: The plural "havelocks" is simply the plural of "havelock," so the real story lies in the name. "Havelock" honours Sir Henry Havelock, a British general in India during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. He led relief efforts for the besieged garrison at Lucknow, and his troops fought through the brutal summer heat of the Indian plains. The cloth neck-flap was designed to shade the head and neck from the sun, which made it a fitting tribute to a campaign fought in such conditions. The headgear was thus named after a person rather than described by what it does, a pattern common with garments and fashions that take a commander's or celebrity's name. The "-s" ending simply marks the plural, referring to more than one such covering.