Curly: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in general context to describe hair or objects with tight, springy loops.

• She has beautiful curly hair.
• The curly ribbon added a nice touch to the gift.

Describes hair or objects with gentle, flowing curves that are less tight than curls.

• She has long, wavy hair.
• The wavy lines on the artwork added a soothing effect.

Refers to something that has been wound or twisted into a circular or spiral shape.

• The cat is curled up on the couch.
• He curled the paper into a tube.

Often describes hair that is tightly coiled, usually with a lack of smoothness or shine, and may imply a lack of grooming or care.

• Her hair gets frizzy in humid weather.
• After swimming, my hair tends to become frizzy.

Often used to describe hair that has natural curls.

• She has beautiful curly hair.
• The doll has curly locks.

Ideal for describing objects or patterns that curve around a central point or axis.

• The staircase has a spiral design.
• The galaxy has a spiral shape.

Frequently used when objects have been turned or bent out of their original shape. Often has a negative connotation.

• The car's metal frame was twisted after the accident.
• She twisted the wires together.

Best suited for describing objects that are wound into a series of loops, like wires or ropes.

• The garden hose was coiled neatly.
• He found a coiled snake in the garden.