Deerstalker
A deerstalker is a close-fitting cap with visors at the front and back and ear flaps that can be worn up or down.
A deerstalker is a close-fitting cap with visors at the front and back and ear flaps that can be worn up or down. The term can also refer to a person who stalks deer, especially for hunting. The hat is especially associated with the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, although that association is largely popular culture rather than the hat’s original purpose.
Meaning
In modern usage, deerstalker most commonly means a hat with front and rear peaks and ear flaps. Dictionaries also record an older noun sense meaning a person who stalks deer.
Design and use
The hat is typically close-fitting and made for outdoor wear, especially in hunting contexts. Its ear flaps can be worn up or down depending on weather and comfort.
Cultural association
Although originally a hunting cap, the deerstalker became widely linked to Sherlock Holmes through illustrations and later adaptations. That association made it a recognizable symbol in detective imagery.
Key facts
- A deerstalker is defined as a hat with two visors, one at the front and one at the back.
- The ear flaps are usually tied up but can be lowered for warmth.
- The word also has an older sense meaning a person who stalks deer.
- The hat became strongly associated with Sherlock Holmes in later popular culture.
- Reference dictionaries list both the hat sense and the deer-hunter sense.
Frequently asked questions
What does deerstalker mean?
Does deerstalker have another meaning?
Why is it associated with Sherlock Holmes?
Is a deerstalker a cap or a hat?
What are the ear flaps for?
References
- Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deerstalkerSupports: Definition as a close-fitting hat with front and back visors and earflaps.
- Cambridge Dictionary — https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/deerstalkerSupports: Definition of deerstalker as a soft hat with two peaks and ear coverings.
- Collins English Dictionary — https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/deerstalkerSupports: Hat definition and alternate meaning as a person who stalks deer.
- Dictionary.com — https://www.dictionary.com/browse/deerstalkerSupports: Both meanings: person who stalks deer and the hunting cap associated with Sherlock Holmes.