bathing cap: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Everyday, somewhat dated
Quick answer
What does “bathing cap” mean?
A tight-fitting waterproof cap worn over the hair to keep it dry while swimming or bathing.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A tight-fitting waterproof cap worn over the hair to keep it dry while swimming or bathing.
A head covering designed for aquatic activities, historically made from rubber or latex, and now often from silicone or similar materials. May also be used for hygiene in public pools or to protect hair from chlorine.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use 'bathing cap'. In British English, 'swimming cap' is a common, more modern synonym. In American English, 'swim cap' is increasingly common, but 'bathing cap' remains understood, often evoking a specific vintage style.
Connotations
UK: May sound slightly old-fashioned or specifically refer to the classic rubber dome-shaped cap. US: Similar vintage connotations; can evoke images of 1950s/60s fashion or strict public pool rules.
Frequency
Declining in both varieties in favour of 'swim cap' or 'swimming cap'. Still used in historical contexts, specific retail product names, and by older speakers.
Grammar
How to Use “bathing cap” in a Sentence
VERB + bathing cap: wear, put on, need, requireADJECTIVE + bathing cap: rubber, silicone, floral, vintagebathing cap + VERB: protects, keeps (hair dry), coversVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in retail (swimwear/accessories) and historical fashion contexts.
Academic
Rare. Might appear in historical, cultural, or design studies related to 20th-century fashion or public health.
Everyday
Used when discussing swimming gear, especially in contexts involving pool rules or vintage styles.
Technical
Used in swimwear design, materials engineering (e.g., rubber/silicone products).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bathing cap”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bathing cap”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bathing cap”
- *'bath cap' (a cap for taking a bath, not swimming).
- Confusing it with 'shower cap'.
- Using it as a verb (e.g., *'She was bathing capping').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A bathing cap is designed for swimming and is typically made of tighter, waterproof material (rubber/silicone) to keep hair completely dry in water. A shower cap is usually made of lighter, water-resistant plastic and is for wearing in the shower or bath to protect hairstyles.
Yes, it is considered somewhat dated. 'Swim cap' or 'swimming cap' are more common in contemporary usage. 'Bathing cap' often evokes a specific vintage style from the mid-20th century.
Rules vary. Some public pools, especially in certain European countries, still require bathing caps for hygiene reasons to reduce hair in filters. Many modern pools and leisure centres do not require them.
Historically, they were made from rubber or latex. Modern versions are predominantly made from silicone (durable, less allergenic) or Lycra/spandex (which is not waterproof but reduces drag for competitive swimmers).
A tight-fitting waterproof cap worn over the hair to keep it dry while swimming or bathing.
Bathing cap is usually everyday, somewhat dated in register.
Bathing cap: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbeɪð.ɪŋ ˌkæp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbeɪð.ɪŋ ˌkæp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this specific noun]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'bathing' as in the old-fashioned term for swimming, and a 'cap' for your head. It's a cap for bathing.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROTECTIVE SHIELD (for hair against water).
Practice
Quiz
Which term is LEAST likely to be used as a synonym for 'bathing cap' in modern contexts?