balaclava

[ bahl-uh-klah-vuh, bal- ]

noun
  1. a close-fitting, knitted cap that covers the head, neck, and tops of the shoulders, worn especially by mountain climbers, soldiers, skiers, etc.

Origin of balaclava

1
First recorded in 1880–85; named after Balaklava
  • Also called bal·a·cla·va hel·met [bahl-uh-klah-vuh-hel-mit, bal-] /ˌbɑl əˈklɑ və ˈhɛl mɪt, ˌbæl-/ .

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use balaclava in a sentence

  • balaclava helmets, mufflers and other woollen gear appeared, and men became almost unrecognisable bundles of clothing.

    Submarine Warfare of To-day | Charles W. Domville-Fife

British Dictionary definitions for Balaclava

Balaclava

Balaclava helmet

/ (ˌbæləˈklɑːvə) /


noun
  1. (often not capitals) a close-fitting woollen hood that covers the ears and neck, as originally worn by soldiers in the Crimean War

Origin of Balaclava

1
C19: named after Balaklava

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012