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Baldness: meaning, definitions and examples

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baldness

 

[ˈbɔːld.nəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

hair loss

Baldness refers to the condition of having little or no hair on the scalp. It can occur in various forms, including complete hair loss or thinning hair. Baldness is commonly associated with aging and can be influenced by genetic factors.

Synonyms

alopecia, hair loss, hairlessness.

Examples of usage

  • His baldness became noticeable in his early thirties.
  • She embraced her baldness and felt confident without hair.
  • Many men experience some degree of baldness as they age.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Old English 'beald,' meaning bald or bare, reflecting the absence of hair.
  • In Middle English, 'bald' was associated with being 'empty' or 'devoid of something' which gradually became tied to hair loss.

Cultural Perception

  • In some cultures, baldness is seen as a sign of wisdom and authority, often associated with older adults.
  • Pop culture often embraces baldness, with celebrities like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Bruce Willis showing how it can be chic and confident.

Health and Biology

  • Genetic factors largely influence baldness; certain genes inherited from parents can lead to hair loss.
  • Conditions like alopecia can cause hair loss in patches or total baldness, affecting people of all ages.

Historical Representation

  • In ancient Egypt, baldness was common due to head shaving for cleanliness, and wigs were often worn as a beauty standard.
  • Medieval artwork sometimes depicted bald clergy, representing piety and devotion, showcasing how baldness was culturally significant.

Psychological Impact

  • Some studies show that bald individuals may experience lower self-esteem due to societal beauty standards favoring hair.
  • Conversely, baldness can also be viewed positively, where individuals embrace their look as a form of self-acceptance and confidence.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,207, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.