Brilliantine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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brilliantine
[หbrษชljษntษชn ]
Definition
hair product
Brilliantine is a type of hair dressing product that gives hair a shiny, lustrous appearance. It is typically made from a blend of oils and waxes and is used to style, smooth, and add sheen to hair, often used in men's grooming.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He applied brilliantine to his hair for a polished look.
- The barber recommended using brilliantine for a sleek hairstyle.
- She loved how brilliantine made her hair shine under the lights.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Brilliantine was a popular hair product in the 1920s and 1930s, associated with the slicked-back hairstyles of that era.
- The use of this product was famously depicted in classic films, contributing to the 'candy man' persona of characters like John Travolta in 'Grease'.
Fashion Trends
- In the early to mid-20th century, brilliantine became a staple in the grooming kits of well-dressed men, symbolizing style and sophistication.
- Modern styling products often blend ingredients reminiscent of brilliantine to achieve that polished look without heavy oils.
Science
- Brilliantine typically contains mineral oil, which helps to create a sleek appearance by coating the hair strands.
- It can also provide a level of protection against environmental factors like humidity and pollution.
Literature
- Brilliantine has appeared in various works of fiction and poetry, often symbolizing vanity or obsession with appearance.
- Writers have used it as a metaphor for superficial shine, contrasting with deeper themes of substance and character.
Origin of 'brilliantine'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French term 'brillant,' which means shiny or sparkling.
- It was first used in English in the late 19th century to describe a specific hair product that gave a glossy finish.
The word 'brilliantine' originates from the French term 'brillant', meaning 'shining' or 'brilliant', which is derived from the Latin 'brillare', meaning 'to shine'. This term began to be used in English in the late 19th century as a fashion and grooming product for hair. The rise of men's grooming products during this time led to the popularization of brilliantine, especially in the early to mid-20th century, when stylish, slicked-back hairstyles were in vogue. With its composition reflecting the era's preference for shine, brilliantine became synonymous with sophistication and elegance in personal appearance.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,065, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.