Caubeen - Name

Name

The name "caubeen" dates from late 18th century Irish, and literally means "old hat". It is derived from the Irish word cáibín, meaning "little cape", which itself is a diminutive form of cába, meaning "cape". According to the Regimental Catechism of The Irish Regiment of Canada, it is suggested that the name "caubeen" may have been derived from the French word "corbeau", referring to the dark-green colours given to the bonnet by the French, for whom many Irish soldiers fought as mercenaries over the centuries. However, it is also stated in the Regimental Catechism that it is "more likely" derived from the Irish word "caipin" (sic: cáibín) meaning "old hat".