Curled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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curled

[kษœหrld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

hair

Having been made into coils or rings.

Synonyms

coiled, twisted, wound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
curled

Used when something is bent or shaped into a curve, often in a soft or gentle manner. It can refer to natural shapes like hair or leaves.

  • She curled her hair with a curling iron.
  • The cat curled up on the couch.
coiled

Describes something wound into a series of loops, typically in a regular pattern. Often used for objects like ropes, springs, or snakes.

  • The garden hose was coiled neatly in the corner.
  • The snake coiled around the branch.
twisted

Implies that something has been turned or bent out of its normal shape in a more forceful or irregular manner. Can have a negative connotation.

  • The treeโ€™s roots were twisted and gnarly.
  • He twisted the wire to secure the fence.
wound

Used when something is wrapped around an object or around itself, usually several times. Itโ€™s often used for string, bandages, or clock mechanisms.

  • She wound the thread around the spool.
  • The clockโ€™s mechanism needs to be wound every day.

Examples of usage

  • My daughter has beautiful curled hair.
  • She styled her hair with curled ends.
  • The actress wore a curled wig for the movie.
  • The little girl had her hair curled for the party.
  • Her curled locks framed her face perfectly.
Context #2 | Verb

body position

To assume a position with the knees drawn up and the head bowed.

Synonyms

crouch, huddle, nestle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
curled

Used for describing someone or something that is shaped into a circular or spiral form. Often used to describe a comfortable or relaxed position.

  • She curled up on the couch with a good book.
  • The cat was curled into a tight ball.
huddle

Usually refers to a group of people or animals staying very close together for warmth, comfort, or to share information.

  • The children huddled together to keep warm.
  • The team huddled during a timeout to discuss strategy.
crouch

Describes bending down with legs bent close to the body, usually to make oneself smaller or less conspicuous.

  • He crouched behind the bushes to avoid being seen.
  • The tiger crouched before pouncing.
nestle

Used to describe snuggling or settling oneself comfortably and snugly.

  • She nestled into the soft pillows and fell asleep.
  • The kitten nestled against its mother.

Examples of usage

  • She curled up on the couch with a blanket.
  • The cat curled into a ball on the windowsill.
  • He curled his body into a fetal position.
  • The child curled up in bed with a book.
  • The dog curled up at her feet.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The curling of leaves often symbolizes change or the passage of time in poetry.
  • In fairy tales, characters are sometimes described as having curled hair, which can signify beauty or enchantment.
  • The imagery of something curled is frequently used to convey coziness, as in a curled-up cat or a child in a blanket.

Science

  • In biology, certain plants have curled leaves as a response to environmental stressors, showcasing adaptation.
  • Curling is also a term used in physics to describe the rotation of a fluid; it's how whirlpools form.
  • Sound waves can 'curl' in complex patterns, which can influence how we hear echoes or music.

Pop Culture

  • Curled hairstyles have fluctuated in popularity, often seen as a symbol of elegance or romantic styles in different eras.
  • Curled up with a good book is a common phrase that reflects the comfort and relaxation associated with reading.
  • In animated films, characters are often depicted as curled up when they are sleepy or cozy, reinforcing a sense of snugness.

Psychology

  • The posture of curling up can be linked to feelings of safety and comfort, often seen in children and animals.
  • Curled-up body language can indicate a need for protection or retreating from stress when experienced in social settings.
  • Research has shown that people often favor 'curled-up' seating arrangements during conversations for a more intimate feel.

Origin of 'curled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'curled' comes from the Old English word 'cyrre,' meaning to twist or to turn.
  • Related words in various languages, like the German 'kurren' (to purr), show the shared roots of describing twisting motions.
  • In its early uses, 'curled' was often associated with natural forms, such as leaves or waves in water.

The word 'curled' originated from the Middle English word 'curle' which meant to twist or turn. It has been used to describe various physical positions and appearances, such as curled hair or curled up body posture. Over time, 'curled' has become a common term in describing the shape or form of objects or living beings. Its usage has evolved to encompass a range of contexts, from hairstyling to body language.


See also: curl, curly, uncurl.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,107, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.