The Graduation Hat
The traditional hat worn during graduation ceremonies is called a mortarboard. The mortarboard is a cap consisting of a flat, square-shaped board with a tassel attached to the center. It gained popularity in the 16th century and has since become synonymous with academic achievements and graduation ceremonies.
The mortarboard is typically black, although some institutions use different colors to represent different academic disciplines or degrees. The square shape of the mortarboard is said to symbolize the shape of a mortarboard used by masons in the construction trade, hence its name.
Why is it Called a Mortarboard?
The term “mortarboard” comes from the resemblance the graduation hat has with the flat board used by masons to hold mortar. The hat’s flat top is reminiscent of the tool used in the trade, leading to the adoption of the name “mortarboard” for the graduation hat.
Other Names for the Graduation Hat
While “mortarboard” is the most commonly used name for the graduation hat, it is worth noting that there are other names for this iconic headpiece.
- Cap and Gown: The term “cap and gown” is often used to refer to the complete graduation attire, which includes both the robe and the mortarboard.
- Academic Cap: Some people refer to the graduation hat as the “academic cap” due to its association with academic achievement.
- Trencher: In some regions, particularly in the United Kingdom, the graduation hat is referred to as a “trencher.”
So, next time you attend a graduation ceremony or reflect on your own academic accomplishments, you can confidently refer to the iconic hat as a mortarboard. Remember, it symbolizes years of hard work, knowledge, and the beginning of a new chapter in a graduate’s life.
Whether you prefer to call it a mortarboard, cap and gown, academic cap, or even a trencher, the significance of this headpiece remains the same. It is a symbol of achievement, dedication, and the joyous celebration of educational milestones.