cap of maintenance: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 (Very Low)Historical, Formal, Ceremonial
Quick answer
What does “cap of maintenance” mean?
A ceremonial, velvet-lined cap of dignity or state, traditionally carried before a sovereign or high dignitary on formal occasions as a symbol of authority.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A ceremonial, velvet-lined cap of dignity or state, traditionally carried before a sovereign or high dignitary on formal occasions as a symbol of authority.
Any similar ceremonial headgear symbolising high office or honour; historically, a cap given by a sovereign as a mark of special favour.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is almost exclusively British, relating to the British monarchy and its historical ceremonies. In American English, it is virtually unknown except in very specialised historical or heraldic contexts.
Connotations
In British English, it connotes monarchy, tradition, and ancient ceremony. In American English, if encountered, it would be seen as a obscure British historical artifact.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both varieties, but marginally more likely to appear in British historical texts.
Grammar
How to Use “cap of maintenance” in a Sentence
[Subject: official] + bears/carries + the cap of maintenance + [before dignitary]The + cap of maintenance + is/was + [verb of carrying/presenting]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cap of maintenance” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The official will cap the procession with the cap of maintenance borne aloft.
- He was honoured to have capped the ceremony by carrying the ancient symbol.
adjective
British English
- The cap-of-maintenance ceremony is steeped in tradition.
- He held a cap-of-maintenance role in the royal household.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical studies, heraldry, or studies of monarchy and ceremony.
Everyday
Never used.
Technical
Used as a precise term in heraldry, protocol, and the study of regalia.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cap of maintenance”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cap of maintenance”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cap of maintenance”
- Confusing it with a 'cap of convenience' or thinking it's a protective helmet. Using 'maintenance' in its modern sense. Spelling: 'cap of maintainance' (incorrect).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, no. It is usually carried on a pole or staff before a sovereign or high official, not worn as regular headgear.
No. The 'maintenance' here is an archaic term meaning the upholding or support of dignity and state.
The original English Cap of Maintenance is part of the Crown Jewels. A replica is used in ceremonies like the State Opening of Parliament in the UK.
No. It is a highly specialised historical term. Learners should be aware of its existence but are very unlikely to need to use it actively.
A ceremonial, velvet-lined cap of dignity or state, traditionally carried before a sovereign or high dignitary on formal occasions as a symbol of authority.
Cap of maintenance is usually historical, formal, ceremonial in register.
Cap of maintenance: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkæp əv ˈmeɪn.tən.əns/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkæp əv ˈmeɪn.tən.əns/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “none”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a royal CAP being MAINTAINED (carried with care) in front of the king to show his high status. The cap maintains his dignity.
Conceptual Metaphor
PHYSICAL OBJECT FOR STATUS/AUTHORITY (The cap metaphorically contains and represents sovereign power.)
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'cap of maintenance' primarily used for?