dunce cap

• Spitze Mütze aus Papier, die früher einem langsamen oder unaufmerksamen Schüler als Strafe oder Zeichen der Schande aufgesetzt wurde. Der Begriff gilt heute als veraltet und entwürdigend.

A conical hat made of paper, historically placed on the head of a slow or inattentive student as a punishment or mark of shame in classrooms. The term is now considered outdated and humiliating.

1. Historical punishment hatB2formal

   A conical hat, historically used in schools as a form of punishment for slow or inattentive students.

   Eselsmütze

   • In the 19th century, a student might be forced to wear a dunce cap for failing a test.
   • The dunce cap was a symbol of humiliation in old classrooms.
   • He felt like he was wearing a dunce cap when he couldn't answer the simple question.

2. Symbol of stupidityB2informal

   A metaphorical term for someone who is considered foolish or slow to learn.

   Symbol der Dummheit

   • Don't be a dunce cap; read the instructions carefully.
   • He felt like a dunce cap after making that silly mistake.
   • The team's poor performance earned them the dunce cap of the league.