cousin of a cravat

The phrase “cousin of a cravat” is most often used as a crossword-style clue, and the standard answer is “ascot.”
Quick Scoop
What is a cravat’s “cousin”?
- In crossword dictionaries and puzzle helper sites, “cravat’s cousin” or “cousin of a cravat” consistently points to the 5‑letter word ASCOT.
- An ascot is a type of broad silk necktie, worn around the neck somewhat like a cravat, which is why it’s described as a “cousin.”
Ascot vs. cravat (very briefly)
- A cravat is an older style of neckwear, essentially a decorative scarf or band tied at the neck, historically popular in 17th–19th century Europe.
- An ascot is a later, more structured form of neckwear with wide pointed ends, usually worn with a pin and associated with formal or semi-formal occasions (like race meetings or weddings).
Tiny style table
Here’s a compact look at the “cousin” relationship:
| Item | What it is | Typical vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Cravat | Early neck-scarf style, loosely tied, often silk. | [6][2]Old-school, dandy, historical elegance. | [2]
| Ascot | Broad silk tie with wide ends, worn with a knot and sometimes a pin. | [1][3][4]Semi- formal to formal, racecourse/wedding energy. | [3][4][6]
Forum / puzzle context
On puzzle and crossword forums, people discussing the clue “cousin of a cravat” almost always settle on ASCOT as the intended answer, often noting the shared formal neckwear heritage.
Bottom note: Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.