Plural of cap; coverings for the head or tops of containers, bottles, or other objects. In typography, refers to capital letters or uppercase text.
From Latin 'cappa' meaning 'hooded cloak', through Old English 'cappe'. The meaning expanded from head coverings to any covering or lid, and later to capital letters due to their position 'on top' of the line.
The tradition of throwing graduation caps (mortarboards) dates back to the 14th century, when masters and doctoral students wore square caps as symbols of academic achievement. The 'caps lock' key on keyboards was originally called 'shift lock' and was essential for typing in all capitals on mechanical typewriters.
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