ascot: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Historical, Fashion
Quick answer
What does “ascot” mean?
A type of broad necktie with wide, overlapping ends, traditionally worn folded over and fastened with a pin or tie tack.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of broad necktie with wide, overlapping ends, traditionally worn folded over and fastened with a pin or tie tack.
A formal cravat-style neckwear associated with horse racing attire and high-status fashion; the term can also refer to a specific type of racing venue or event (Ascot Racecourse).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'ascot' strongly and primarily refers to the neckwear and is indelibly linked to the Royal Ascot horse racing event. In American English, the term is used almost exclusively for the necktie, with less automatic connection to the event.
Connotations
UK: Strong connotations of aristocracy, formal summer events, and traditional British class structure. US: Connotations of old-fashioned, upper-class formality, or costume wear.
Frequency
More frequent in UK English due to cultural prominence of Royal Ascot. Very low frequency in general American English, found mainly in historical or fashion contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “ascot” in a Sentence
He wore an ascot.She fastened his ascot with a pearl pin.The dress code required an ascot.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “ascot” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He had an ascot-like scarf tucked into his jacket.
- The ascot style is making a subtle comeback.
American English
- He preferred an ascot-style neckwear for the wedding.
- The vintage suit had an ascot feel to it.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Extremely rare, except in niche businesses like formal wear or historical costuming.
Academic
Used in historical, sociological, or fashion studies discussing class, attire, or specific periods.
Everyday
Virtually non-existent in casual conversation.
Technical
Used in fashion design and tailoring to specify a type of neckwear construction.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “ascot”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “ascot”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “ascot”
- Pronouncing it as /eɪˈskɒt/ (like the racecourse name). The item of clothing is pronounced with a short 'a'.
- Using 'ascot' to refer to any scarf or casual neckwear.
- Misspelling as 'ascott'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Technically, an ascot is a type of cravat. In modern usage, 'ascot' often specifies a broad, formal tie for daywear, typically folded over and pinned, while 'cravat' can be a broader historical term for neckwear.
It is considered very formal, old-fashioned, or costume-like in most everyday settings. It remains appropriate for specific formal dress codes (like Royal Ascot), period reenactments, or as a bold fashion statement.
It is named after Ascot Racecourse in England, where this style of neckwear was popularised among the wealthy spectators in the 19th century.
Yes. Primarily, it refers to Ascot Racecourse and the famous Royal Ascot horse racing meeting held there. It is also a place name in the UK and elsewhere.
A type of broad necktie with wide, overlapping ends, traditionally worn folded over and fastened with a pin or tie tack.
Ascot is usually formal, historical, fashion in register.
Ascot: in British English it is pronounced /ˈaskət/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈæskət/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Dressed for Ascot”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a SCOT (Scottish person) wearing a fancy tie at the AS (horse) races. A SCOT at the races wears an ASCOT.
Conceptual Metaphor
FORMALITY IS CONSTRICTION (e.g., 'bound by tradition', 'the ascot constrained his informal impulses').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'ascot' most commonly used in modern British English?