blue bonnet, -ˈbonnet
[cf. blue-cap.]
1. spec. A broad round horizontally flattened bonnet or cap of blue woollen material, formerly in general use in Scotland. Hence blue-ˈbonneted a.
| 1682 2nd Plea Nonconf. 4 In a Jesuit's long Robes, and a Scotish blew Bonnet. 1859 Masson Milton I. 667 The blue-bonneted and plaided peasantry of the shires. |
2. transf. A blue-bonneted peasant, or soldier.
| 1818 Scott Rob Roy xxvi, Rob soon gathered an unco band o' blue-bonnets at his back. 1820 ― Monast. xxv, When the Blue Bonnets came over the Border. |
3. A Scotch name of species of Centaurea, as the Bluebottle; also of species of Scabious and other round-headed blue flowers.
| 1863 M. Plues Rambl. Wild Fl. 168 The corn blue bottle..Its brilliant colour entitles it to its Scotch appellation of Blue bonnet. The French call it bluet. |
4. Dial. name of the Blue Tit-mouse; = blue-cap.