The word "bycocket" is spelled phonetically as /baɪkɑkɪt/. It is a type of hat worn in the 14th and 15th centuries by both men and women. The hat is characterized by its shape, which resembles a funnel with an upturned brim. The unique spelling of this word comes from its Middle English origins, where it was spelled "bycoket," meaning "a little hat." Despite its old-fashioned history, the bycocket has occasionally made appearances in modern fashion, often in medieval or fantasy-themed settings.
A bycocket is a type of medieval headdress that was popularized during the 14th and 15th centuries. This distinctive hat is characterized by its unique shape, featuring a high, pointed crown and a wide brim that curls upwards on two sides. The bycocket is often depicted as having a slight forward tilt, creating an elegant and fashionable look.
Derived from the French phrase "bi coq," meaning "like a cockerel," the term bycocket perfectly encapsulates the resemblance of this headdress to a rooster's comb. Made primarily from felt or straw, the bycocket was typically adorned with decorative elements such as ribbons, feathers, or jewels to enhance its appearance and signify the wearer's social status.
The bycocket was a versatile accessory that could be worn by both men and women of varying social classes. It was commonly seen on nobles, particularly women of noble birth, who would often wear them to complement their elaborate gowns and demonstrate their fashionable taste. However, the bycocket was not limited to the upper classes. It was also worn by lower-ranking individuals who sought to emulate the style of the aristocracy.
Today, the bycocket is primarily associated with historical reenactments and costume events, where individuals recreate the fashion of the Middle Ages. Its distinctive shape and rich cultural significance make it an iconic symbol of the medieval period and a testament to the artistic and sartorial achievements of that era.
The word bycocket is derived from Middle English and is believed to have originated from the combination of two words: by and coket.
The term coket referred to a small medieval hat with a tapering crown and a turned-up brim. It was typically worn by both men and women during the 14th and 15th centuries. Meanwhile, the word by in this context functions as a reduction of biside, which means beside or near.
Therefore, the word bycocket essentially means a hat worn beside the head or a hat worn near the head.