Definition of the word fez

The word "fez" originates from the Turkish city of Fez, which is also known as Fes in Arabic. In the Middle Ages, Fez was a significant center of Islamic learning and artistry, particularly known for its production of red felt hats, which were worn by the local inhabitants. The Turkish name for the city, 'Fİzi' in Arabic script, was interpreted by Europeans as "Fez" in the 19th century, which is how the city came to be known in the Western world. The red felt hats, which became popular among Europeans as tourism increased in the region, were also referred to as "fezzes", further cementing the use of the word "fez" in relation to this type of headwear. However, the wearing of fezzes as a symbol of national identity became particularly associated with the Young Ottomans, a political movement that emerged in the Ottoman Empire in the early 19th century. The fez became a symbol of modernization, nationalism, and Turkish culture, further popularizing the word in regional and global contexts. In summary, the origin of the word "fez" can be traced back to the Turkish city of Fez, known for its red felt hats and its significance as a center of Islamic learning and culture in the Middle Ages. The word's use to describe both the city and the type of headwear continues to be commonly used today.