touque

A touque is a knitted winter cap designed to cover the head and ears and provide warmth in cold weather. It is typically made from wool or synthetic yarns such as acrylic and comes in a range of thicknesses, from lightweight to heavy ribbed knits. Common features include a snug fit, a rolled or cuffed brim, and sometimes a decorative pom-pom. Variants may include ear flaps, fleece lining, or reverse-knit styles intended for extra warmth.

Origin and terminology: The term is a variant spelling of tuque, the Canadian English name for this style of hat. The standard spelling in many dictionaries is tuque; touque is another widely recognized Canadian variant, while toque is a distinct word in French and English referring to a chef's hat or other types of hat in some dialects. The etymology traces to Canadian French tuque and possibly Indigenous languages, with the exact origin uncertain.

Usage and cultural context: Touques are common in Canada and northern regions, and are widely worn by people engaged in winter recreation, outdoor labor, and everyday cold-weather wear. They have also become a fashion item in casual winter attire.

Comparison: It is distinct from the chef’s toque, which refers to a tall white hat worn by chefs; the two terms can cause confusion due to similar spellings in English.