coif
UK[kɔɪf]US[kɔɪf]
n
a close-fitting cap worn by women in the middle ages.
n
a protective metal skullcap worn under a hood of mail.
n
a hairstyle, especially one that is smooth and close to the head.
Etymology
the word 'coif' entered english in the 14th century from the old french 'coife', meaning a close-fitting cap or headdress. the old french term itself derives from the late latin 'cofia', a type of helmet. its ultimate origin is likely from a west germanic source, related to the old high german 'kupphia' (cap) and the middle dutch 'kupe', both referring to a basket or cap. the semantic journey reflects a consistent focus on a covering for the head, evolving from a protective helmet to a fashionable cap and finally to a specific hairstyle that mimics a cap's smooth, enclosed form.
Analysis
this word is a loanword from old french, where its form and core meaning were established. it is not productively formed from smaller, recognizable english morphemes.
Examples
the effigy on the tomb wore a delicate linen coif.
the knight's chainmail coif protected his neck and shoulders.
she styled her hair in a sleek, modern coif for the gala.