bonnet
- 01 B1 Intermediate
the metal cover over the engine at the front of a car.
the hinged metal panel covering the engine compartment of a motor vehicle.
Simple“He opened the bonnet to check the oil before the long drive.”
In context“Steam began pouring from under the bonnet, forcing the driver to pull over before the engine sustained permanent damage.”
UsageEquivalent to the American 'hood'.
PitfallI opened the hood of my car in London. I opened the bonnet of my car in London.In British English, use 'bonnet'; 'hood' is the American equivalent.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a type of hat that you tie under your chin with ribbons.
a head covering, typically for women or children, that is secured by ribbons or strings tied under the chin.
Simple“The baby wore a white lace bonnet to protect her head from the sun.”
In context“In the historical drama, the female characters wore silk bonnets whenever they ventured out into the village streets.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
a traditional soft, round woollen hat worn in Scotland.
a brimless, outdoor woollen cap traditional to Scotland.
Simple“The old man wore a blue bonnet as part of his traditional outfit.”
In context“The regiment was easily identified by the specific tilt of their blue bonnets during the parade.”
Teacher's tipOften referred to as a 'bunnet' in modern Scots dialect.
Synonymstamberet - 04 C2 Proficiency
an extra piece of sailcloth added to the bottom of a sail to catch more wind.
an additional strip of canvas laced to the foot of a sail to increase its surface area in light winds.
Simple“The sailors attached a bonnet to the sail to help the ship move faster.”
In context“With the wind dying down, the crew decided to lace on the bonnet to maintain their speed through the channel.”
UsageUsed as a technical term in sailing and maritime contexts.