toque: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal/Specialized
Quick answer
What does “toque” mean?
A small, brimless hat, typically worn by chefs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, brimless hat, typically worn by chefs.
Can refer to various styles of hats in fashion or historical contexts, such as a knitted cap or a decorative headpiece.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'toque' is rarely used outside culinary contexts; in American English, it might also refer to a knitted winter cap in some regions, but primarily denotes a chef's hat.
Connotations
Both associate it with chefs and authority in the kitchen; in fashion, it can connote elegance or historicity.
Frequency
More frequently encountered in American English, especially in culinary settings.
Grammar
How to Use “toque” in a Sentence
Noun + modifier (e.g., chef's toque)Wear + toqueToque made of + materialVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used, except in hospitality or fashion industries.
Academic
Used in studies of fashion history or culinary arts.
Everyday
Uncommon, primarily in contexts related to cooking or specific events.
Technical
Specific terminology in fashion design or culinary professions.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “toque”
- Mispronunciation as /tɒk/ or /tjuːk/
- Confusion with 'torque' (a twisting force) in writing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A toque is a small, brimless hat, most commonly associated with chefs.
In British English, it's pronounced /təʊk/, and in American English, /toʊk/.
No, it is relatively uncommon and is mostly used in specialized contexts like culinary or fashion.
Yes, historically and in fashion, 'toque' can refer to various brimless hats, but today it's primarily known as a chef's hat.
A small, brimless hat, typically worn by chefs.
Toque is usually formal/specialized in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember 'toque' sounds like 'cloak' – imagine a small cloak for your head.
Conceptual Metaphor
The toque as a crown, representing authority and skill in the kitchen.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary association of the word 'toque'?