Definition

A type of traditional headwear made from cloth, typically worn by men in Arab cultures, often shaped like a triangle and secured with a band.

Example

He wore a black and white kaffiyeh to protect himself from the sun.

Conversation

I saw a really cool kaffiyeh at the market yesterday.

Oh really? I've always wanted one for the summer.

They come in so many colors and patterns, it's hard to choose.

I bet! A nice kaffiyeh would be perfect for those sunny days.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'kaffiyeh' originates from Arabic 'كوفية' (kufiyyah), which refers to a traditional headscarf worn in the Middle East. The term is derived from 'Kufa', a city in Iraq where this type of headdress was commonly worn. Thus, a kaffiyeh is a headscarf associated with the cultural practices of the region.

Memory Tip

Imagine a traditional headscarf that connects to the city of Kufa in Iraq — that's why a kaffiyeh is a cultural symbol from that area.

Visually Confused Words