chaplet

noun

chap·​let ˈchap-lət How to pronounce chaplet (audio)
1
: a wreath to be worn on the head
2
a
: a string of beads
b
: a part of a rosary comprising five decades
3
: a small molding carved with small decorative forms
chapleted adjective

Illustration of chaplet

Illustration of chaplet
  • chaplet 1

Example Sentences

maidens wove a chaplet of flowers round the champion's head
Recent Examples on the Web Don’t loiter here or come back later, Or the god’s staff and chaplet won’t protect you. Sarah Ruden, National Review, 31 Mar. 2022

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'chaplet.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English chapelet, from Anglo-French, diminutive of chapel hat, garland, from Medieval Latin cappellus head covering, from Late Latin cappa

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of chaplet was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near chaplet

Cite this Entry

“Chaplet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chaplet. Accessed 21 Mar. 2023.

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