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In English-speaking countries "sombrero" typically refers to a type of hat originating in Mexico. The English word sombrero is a loan word from Spanish, where the term is used to refer to any hat with a brim. It derives from the Spanish word sombra, meaning "shade" or "shadow". Spanish speakers outside Mexico refer to what English speakers call a Sombrero as a "Mexican hat" (sombrero mexicano).
Sombreros usually have a somewhat high pointed crown and a very wide brim, which may be slightly upturned at the edge, used for protection from the hot sun in Mexico. Peasant sombreros are usually made of straw, while wealthier Hispanics wear sombreros made of felt. It is almost unseen in modern urban settings, except as part of a folkloric outfit worn in certain festivities. The Sombrero hat is often used in traditional Mexican celebrations.
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Last updated on Tuesday July 22, 2008 at 16:34:09 PDT (GMT -0700)
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