babushkas

A babushka is a traditional Russian peasant woman. The word itself is derived from the Russian word for grandmother or old woman. In popular culture, "babushka" has come to refer specifically to a headscarf tied under the chin, a common style of headwear worn by older women in Eastern Europe, though it was historically worn by women of all ages. These headscarves are typically made of soft fabrics like cotton or wool and are often patterned. The style gained international recognition and became a fashion item in the West, particularly in the mid-20th century. While the headscarf is the most widely recognized association with the term outside of Russia, the original meaning of "babushka" simply refers to an elderly woman or grandmother. The cultural significance of grandmothers in Slavic societies is substantial, and the term reflects this respect for elders. The babushka headscarf remains a visible element of traditional attire in some rural areas and has seen resurgences in fashion.