fascinator

noun

fas·​ci·​na·​tor ˈfa-sə-ˌnā-tər 

1

: one that fascinates

2

: a woman's lightweight head scarf usually of crochet or lace

Examples of fascinator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

If the horse race is the headlining event that takes place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on the first Saturday in May, the proverbial parade of attendees' haute headwear and feathery fascinators can claim the second most important affair of the day. —Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 26 Apr. 2026

Middleton accessorized her festive look with matching green pumps, a stylish fascinator secured atop her low chignon, and gold and green onyx Monica Vinader earrings. —Instyle Editors, InStyle, 6 Apr. 2026

More horseplay: Saturday brings the 75th running of the Curlin Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, a chance to watch horses that will soon run in the Kentucky Derby, but also an excuse for locals to dress up with outfits topped by a hat or fascinator. —Ben Crandell, Sun Sentinel, 25 Mar. 2026

Her long honey-blonde hair was elegantly adorned with a fascinator, adding a regal touch perfect for the event. —María Munsuri, Glamour, 25 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for fascinator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• alternator
• animator
• annotator
• applicator
• arbitrator
• aspirator
• aviator