Bedhead: meaning, definitions and examples

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bedhead

 

[ ˈbɛdˌhɛd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

hairstyle, informal

Bedhead refers to the disheveled or messy appearance of hair upon waking. It is often characterized by tangles or hair sticking up in various directions due to sleep. People may sport bedhead unintentionally, leading to a casual and often humorous look.

Synonyms

disheveled hair, messy hair, tangled hair

Examples of usage

  • I woke up late and dashed out with major bedhead.
  • Her bedhead looked so cute, it was like she just rolled out of a magazine.
  • He always tries to tame his bedhead before heading to work.
  • After a long night's sleep, my bedhead was outrageous.

Etymology

The term 'bedhead' is a colloquialism that combines the word 'bed', referring to the piece of furniture used for sleeping, with 'head', indicating the hair on one's head. It gained prominence in the late 20th century, especially with the rise of casual fashion and the acceptance of unkempt styles. The concept reflects a relaxed attitude towards personal grooming, indicating that a person has just awakened and possibly has not yet styled their hair. It resonates with the idea of natural beauty, embracing imperfection, and acknowledging the realities of everyday life. As popular culture evolved, so did interpretations of bedhead, leading to hairstyles that intentionally mimic this look, often showcased in fashion and media.