Definition of toque

The word "toque" originates from the 16th-century French word "toque," which refers to a type of close-fitting cap or hood. The term was typically used to describe a bonnet or head covering worn by men, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries. In the 19th century, the term "toque" became associated with a type of warm, close-fitting hat worn by cooks and chefs. This is likely due to the fact that cooks often wore a toque as part of their uniform to keep their heads warm while working in a hot kitchen. Today, the term "toque" is still used in the culinary world to refer to the distinctive white hat worn by many chefs and cooks as a symbol of their profession.