What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fez
Example
He wore a red fez with a black tassel to the party. [fez: noun]
Example
The soldiers marched in their dress uniforms, complete with fezzes on their heads. [fezzes: plural noun]
tarboosh
Example
He looked dapper in his black suit and red tarboosh. [tarboosh: noun]
Example
The president greeted the foreign dignitaries while wearing his official tarboosh. [tarboosh: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fez is more commonly known and recognized globally than tarboosh. However, fez is more commonly used in Western culture as a novelty item or costume accessory, while tarboosh is still worn in some Middle Eastern countries as part of traditional dress.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fez and tarboosh?
Both fez and tarboosh can be formal or ceremonial hats, but they are not typically used in modern Western culture as everyday headwear. Therefore, they may be considered more formal or traditional in nature.