graduation cap

Tasseled ceremony hat

A graduation cap is the flat-topped hat with a tassel worn at academic ceremonies, also called a mortarboard for its resemblance to the mason's tool.

The square board sits on a skullcap, with a tassel that graduates traditionally move from one side to the other upon receiving their diploma: She tossed her graduation cap in the air with the other seniors.

Opposites
ceremonial vs. everyday headwear

graduation capbaseball cap

Soft hat, stiff brim

beanie · trucker hat · snapback · sun hat · dad hat

educational achievement symbolism

graduation capdunce cap

Conical humiliation headwear

failing grades · school uniform

academic regalia vs. non-academic attire

graduation capdunce cap

Conical humiliation headwear

hard hat · construction helmet · hairnet · safety helmet · mining helmet

Family

graduation, graduate, graduated, graduating, graduates, gradual, gradually, grade, grades

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G