Fascinator
/ˈfæs.ɪ.neɪ.tər/noun
A small decorative headpiece worn by women, especially at formal events.
Did you know?English fascination words ultimately descend from Latin fascinare, a verb tied in Roman culture to the evil eye and protective magic against bewitchment.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bhasko-
“Possible ancestral root connected to speaking or enchantment (reconstructed and debated).”
Latin
Latin
fascināre
“To bewitch, enchant, or cast the evil eye.”
Late Latin
Latin
fascinātor
“A bewitcher; one who casts a spell or evil eye.”
Middle English
English
fascinatour
“A sorcerer or enchanter.”
19th Century
English
fascinator
“A light ornamental head covering or headpiece.”
Modern English
English
fascinator
“A small decorative headpiece worn at formal events.”
Explore more surprising origins