Yarmulke (Yid., etym. uncertain; the tradition that it is a corruption of the Heb. for ‘in fear of God’ is unlikely). Skull cap worn by Orthodox Jewish men. The yarmulke is worn by the observant at all times as a sign of humility before God. The less orthodox only cover their heads for prayer. The custom is of relatively recent origin (c.17th cent.) and its religious basis lies in the proscription of gentile practices (i.e. of uncovering the head as a sign of respect). See also HEAD, COVERING OF; HAIR.

yar·mul·ke / ˈyämə(l)kə/ (also yar·mul·ka) • n. a skullcap worn in public by Orthodox Jewish men or during prayer by other Jewish men.

yarmulke