Hairs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
hairs
[heษrz ]
Definitions
on the human body
Hairs are the fine threadlike strands growing from the skin of humans and animals, serving a variety of functions including insulation, protection, and sensory perception.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hairs |
Use to refer to multiple individual hair strands, especially in a scientific or general descriptive context.
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| strands |
Use to describe individual pieces of hair, often in the context of styling or describing hair texture.
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| locks |
Use to describe a full, often attractive head of hair or specific sections of long hair, usually in a poetic or romantic context.
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| follicles |
Use in a medical or biological context to refer to the small cells from which hairs grow.
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Examples of usage
- She has long, flowing hairs that shimmer in the sunlight.
- His hairs stood on end when he heard the ghostly sound in the old house.
in a non-human context
In botany, hairs refer to the fine outgrowths or appendages on plants, often serving to protect the plant from excessive sunlight, reduce water loss, or deter herbivores.
Synonyms
filaments, pubescence, trichomes.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hairs |
The plural form of 'hair,' describing multiple individual strands. Used in general contexts similar to 'hair'.
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| trichomes |
Refers to tiny hair-like structures on plants. Mostly used in botanical or biological sciences.
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| pubescence |
Pertains to the fine, downy hair found on the bodies of certain plants and animals. It is often used in botanical contexts.
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| filaments |
Used in a scientific or technical context to refer to very fine, thread-like structures, either biological (such as in plants) or synthetic.
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Examples of usage
- The leaves of the plant were covered in tiny hairs that gave them a fuzzy appearance.
- The cactus had sharp hairs that pricked anyone who touched it.
plural form
Hairs can also refer to a single strand or filament of a material, such as wires or fibers, used in various applications.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hairs |
Refers to thin, thread-like growths on plants or animals, other than humans.
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| filaments |
Typically used in scientific or technical contexts to describe very thin threads or fibers, often found in biology or materials science.
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| strands |
Used to describe individual long pieces of something, especially hair, thread, or fiber. It can also be used metaphorically.
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| threads |
Commonly refers to a long, thin piece of cotton, nylon, or other fibers used for sewing. It can also describe a sequence of connected messages or thoughts.
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Examples of usage
- The electronics technician carefully soldered the tiny hairs of the copper wire together.
- The artist used hairs from a paintbrush to create intricate details in the painting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Hair is made of a protein called keratin, which is also found in our nails and skin.
- Humans have about 100,000 to 150,000 hairs on their heads, with hair color determined by genetic factors.
- Each hair grows from a follicle under the skin, and the average growth rate is about half an inch per month!
Culture
- Hair has been a significant aspect of identity across cultures, symbolizing status, religion, and personal style.
- In many ancient societies, hairstyles signified social class; for example, in ancient Egypt, noble women often had elaborate styles.
- Today, hair trends change quickly, influenced by celebrities, fashion, and even social media.
Psychology
- People often associate hair style with personality; for example, people with wild colors might be seen as more creative.
- Studies show that hair loss can affect self-esteem and body image, prompting many to seek solutions.
- Hair can also play a role in social and dating contexts, affecting impression formation.
Popular Culture
- Songs like 'I Am My Hair' by Lady Gaga celebrate individuality and the connection people feel to their hair.
- Famous characters in movies have signature hairstyles, like Princess Leiaโs buns in Star Wars, making them easily recognizable.
- The 'big hair' trend of the 1980s reflects how fashion and hairstyles can change dramatically over time.
Origin of 'hairs'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'hรฆฤกr', which meant 'hair' or 'bristle'.
- Related words in Latin and Greek include 'capillus' (Latin) and 'thrix' (Greek), both meaning hair.
- The word has evolved through time, influencing many modern languages.
The word 'hairs' dates back to Old English 'haer', which is related to Old Norse 'hรกr'. The plural form 'hairs' has been used in English since the Middle Ages, evolving from the Proto-Germanic word 'hairiz'. Throughout history, the significance of hair has varied greatly across cultures, symbolizing beauty, strength, religious beliefs, and social status.
See also: hair, hairband, hairbrush, hairdresser, hairline, hairpiece, hairpin, hairstylist, hairy.