Hair

Definition

Hair is a noun that refers to the thread-like strands growing from the skin of mammals, including humans. It serves as a protective covering and can be found on the scalp, face, and body. It also refers to any thread-like filament, such as those found on plants or textiles.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɛr/
• Respelling: HAIR

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /heə/
• Respelling: HAIR

Etymology

The word "hair" originates from Old English "hǣr," which is derived from Proto-Germanic "*hēraz" and Proto-Indo-European "*ḱer-," meaning "to grow" or "to cover." Its use has been consistent in English since the early Middle Ages.

Derivatives

• Hairy (adjective)
• Hairless (adjective)
• Hairline (noun)
• Hairstyle (noun)
• Hairbrush (noun)

Synonyms

• Fur
• Locks
• Tresses

Antonyms

• Baldness
• None
• None

Usage

The noun "hair" is commonly used to describe the strands on the head or body, such as "Her hair is long and shiny." It is also used metaphorically, such as "He was saved by a hair," meaning narrowly or by a small margin.

Related Terms

• Fur: The dense coat of soft hair covering the skin of many animals.
• Scalp: The skin on the top of the head where hair grows.
• Follicle: The sheath in the skin that produces hair.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The thread-like strands growing from the skin of mammals: Refers to human or animal hair.
  • Example: "Her hair was styled in a braid."
• A single strand of such growth: Refers to an individual hair filament.
  • Example: "There was a single hair on the pillow."
• Any thread-like filament resembling hair: Refers to similar structures in plants or materials.
  • Example: "The cactus is covered with fine hairs."
• A metaphorical term for narrowness or smallness: Used in expressions to denote slight margins or precision.
  • Example: "He won the race by a hair."