Pronunciation: [kˈap slˈiːv] (IPA) 
Cap sleeves are a type of clothing sleeve that covers the shoulder and upper arm but leaves the rest of the arm exposed. The word 'cap' has a /k/ sound followed by a short /æ/ sound, while 'sleeve' begins with a /s/ sound and has a long /iː/ sound followed by a /v/ sound. The correct spelling of 'cap sleeve' reflects the sounds in the word, with the 'c' and 's' letters used to represent the /k/ and /s/ sounds, respectively.
Cap sleeve refers to a style of sleeve commonly found on women's clothing that is characterized by a short, rounded, and relatively loose shape that covers only the top part of the shoulder. This type of sleeve is named after its resemblance to a cap or a crown that sits on the shoulder. Cap sleeves are designed to create a distinctive silhouette and add a touch of femininity to garments.
Cap sleeves are typically seen on dresses, blouses, and tops, and are favored for their versatility and ease of wear. They are frequently used in summer attire and for casual or semi-formal occasions, as they provide coverage while allowing free movement of the arms and shoulders. Their short length provides a flirty and youthful appearance to the overall outfit.
Cap sleeves can vary in their construction, with some featuring a simple circular shape that smoothly connects to the neckline, while others may have decorative details such as pleats, ruffles, or gathering. They can be made from a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, silk, chiffon, or lace, further contributing to the variety of styles they can be found in.
In conclusion, cap sleeves are a type of sleeve that covers only the top part of the shoulder and adds an element of charm and femininity to women's clothing. Their versatility and comfortable fit make them a popular choice for various occasions and a staple design feature in many wardrobe essentials.
The word "cap sleeve" is derived from the combination of two terms: "cap" and "sleeve".
The term "cap" is derived from the Old Norse word "kappi", meaning "top" or "cap". Over time, "cap" came to refer to a variety of objects that resembled or covered the topmost portion of something. In the context of clothing, a "cap" referred to a head covering, and this term was further extended to describe a specific style of sleeve that covered only the topmost portion of the shoulder.
The term "sleeve" originates from the Old English word "slēfe", which referred to the part of a garment that covers or encloses the arm. The word "sleeve" has remained relatively unchanged throughout its history.
