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Follicles Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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follicles

[ˈfɒl.ɪ.kəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

hair

Follicles are small sacs in the skin from which hair grows. Each hair on your body grows from a follicle. Follicles contain the root of the hair and sebaceous glands, which produce oil to keep the hair and skin moisturized.

Synonyms

hair follicles, hair roots, hair sacs.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
follicles

This term can be used in general biological or medical contexts to refer to small sacs or cavities in the body, not limited to hair.

  • The doctor explained that the cyst had formed within one of my skin's follicles.
  • Follicles are also found in the ovaries, producing eggs.
hair roots

This term is often used informally to talk about the base of the hair shaft located within the follicle, typically in discussions concerning hair care and styling.

  • It's important to massage the scalp to improve circulation to the hair roots.
  • You can see her natural hair color at the roots as her hair grows out.
hair follicles

This term is more specific and commonly used in discussions about hair growth, hair loss, or treatments related to the scalp and hair.

  • Researchers are studying ways to stimulate hair follicles for better hair growth.
  • Hair follicles can be damaged by certain chemicals, leading to hair loss.
hair sacs

This term is very rarely used in everyday language or scientific contexts. When used, it may refer to the follicle in a less formal or less accurate manner.

  • The hair sacs on his scalp seemed to be clogged, preventing healthy hair growth.
  • Hair sacs play a role in anchoring hair to the scalp.

Examples of usage

  • The follicles on my scalp produce strong, healthy hair.
  • She plucked the hair from the follicle, causing slight pain.
  • The follicles on his face are more sensitive than those on his arms.
  • The doctor examined the follicles to determine the cause of hair loss.
  • I take good care of my follicles to ensure my hair stays shiny and strong.

Translations

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

Origin of 'follicles'

The word 'follicles' originates from the Latin word 'follis', meaning 'bag' or 'sack'. In the context of hair growth, follicles refer to the small structures in the skin that support hair growth. The study of follicles has been important in understanding hair loss and hair health. Various treatments and products are designed to nourish and protect follicles for optimal hair growth.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,833, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.