A biretta is a traditional square cap that is worn by the clergy in the Roman Catholic Church. It has three ridges or peaks on the top and is usually made of black or red silk with a pom-pom on the top. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of biretta.
Definitions
A biretta is a type of hat worn by the clergy, especially in the Roman Catholic Church. It is a square cap with three or four ridges or peaks on the top. The biretta is usually made of silk and is available in various colors such as black, red, purple, and white.
Origin
The origin of the biretta can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It was originally worn by scholars and professors in universities and was also worn by the clergy. The biretta became a part of the official dress of the clergy in the Roman Catholic Church in the 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a biretta is “a stiff square cap with three or four rounded ridges across the top, worn by Roman Catholic clergy and some Anglican and Lutheran clergy.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines a biretta as “a square cap with three or four peaks, worn by the clergy, especially in the Roman Catholic Church.”
Associations
The biretta is associated with the clergy in the Roman Catholic Church. It is worn by bishops, priests, and deacons during liturgical ceremonies such as Mass, processions, and other religious events.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of biretta include cap, hat, headgear, and headdress.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms for biretta.
The same root words
The word biretta has no specific root words.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences using the word biretta:
- The bishop wore a red biretta during the Mass.
- The priest removed his biretta before entering the church.
- The deacon’s black biretta matched his cassock.
In conclusion, the biretta is a traditional square cap worn by the clergy in the Roman Catholic Church. It has a rich history and is an important part of the official dress of the clergy. The biretta is associated with religious ceremonies and events and is available in various colors.