Plural of baret or barret, which are types of flat caps or bonnets worn in medieval and Renaissance times.
From Middle English 'baret,' possibly derived from Old French or Medieval Latin sources related to hat-wearing. The exact origin is uncertain but may relate to 'bar' meaning to cover.
Barrets were status symbols—the materials, colors, and decorations on your barret told everyone exactly how rich and important you were, kind of like designer logos today!
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