bonnet
UK[ˈbɒnɪt]US[ˈbɑːnɪt]
n
a type of hat that ties under the chin, worn especially by babies and in the past by women.
n
the metal cover over the front part of a car in british english (called a 'hood' in american english).
n
a part of a chimney, fireplace, or boiler that can be opened for cleaning.
Etymology
the word 'bonnet' entered english in the late middle ages from old french, where 'bonet' referred to a type of material used for head-coverings. the term's ultimate origin is obscure, but it is possibly derived from vulgar latin 'abonnis', a word of unknown meaning. over centuries in english, its application narrowed from a general soft, brimless hat for men to become primarily associated with women's and children's headwear tied under the chin. this semantic specialization was followed by a metaphorical extension in the 20th century to describe the hinged metal cover over a car's engine, a usage particular to british english that draws an analogy between the cover and a protective hat for the vehicle.
Analysis
the word 'bonnet' is a simplex loanword from middle french 'bonet', meaning a type of cloth or headdress. its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be from vulgar latin 'abonnis'.
Examples
the baby looked adorable in a white lace bonnet.
i need to check the oil level, so could you pop the bonnet?
a plume of smoke escaped from the chimney bonnet.