Kufis

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of brimless, rounded cap traditionally worn by men in many African and Muslim cultures for religious or cultural significance ; a short, close-fitting skullcap often used during prayer or formal occasions ; a small, circular head covering symbolizing identity and respect in various ethnic or religious communities
2. A closely fitted, brimless hat commonly worn by men in Islamic and African societies for ceremonial or everyday purposes ; a round cap serving as a cultural or religious emblem especially during rituals or gatherings ; a simple, snug headpiece representing tradition and faith across multiple regions
3. A rounded skullcap without a brim, frequently donned in Muslim and African customs as a sign of piety or heritage ; a tight-fitting cap used in religious observances and cultural events to denote respect or status ; a symbolic head covering worn by men to express religious devotion or ethnic belonging

Etymology: "Kufis" is simply the plural of "kufi," so it refers to more than one of these caps. The singular, "kufi," is probably taken from Arabic "kūfiyya," the word for the checkered scarf known in English as the keffiyeh. The link between a scarf and a close-fitting cap is a useful clue: the same Arabic root gave rise to a head covering that could be worn in more than one way, and the cap-sized version seems to have developed from that broader family of headwear. The route into English is less certain. Some sources suggest the word passed through Swahili, where "kofia" means "hat," and a few propose a connection to Yoruba "fìlà," meaning "cap." Because these possibilities are not settled, the Arabic origin is the most widely accepted starting point, while the East African and West African links remain possible but unconfirmed.

Synonyms: kufi hats, Islamic cap