Hairy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hairy

[หˆherฤ“ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

description of a person or animal

Covered with hair; having a lot of hair.

Synonyms

hirsute, hirsutism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hairy

Can also describe a situation that is scary or dangerous.

  • The drive through the mountains was pretty hairy.
  • It was a hairy moment when his car skidded on the ice.
hirsute

A formal or literary word to describe someone or something that has a lot of hair.

  • The professor's hirsute appearance made him look quite distinguished.
  • Some people find hirsute pets more cuddly.
hirsutism

A medical term used to describe excessive hair growth on the body, particularly in women.

  • She consulted a doctor about her hirsutism.
  • Hirsutism can be a symptom of an underlying hormonal issue.

Examples of usage

  • She has a hairy chest.
  • The dog has a hairy coat.
  • The spider has long hairy legs.
Context #2 | Adjective

informal expression

Dangerous or risky; full of difficulties or problems.

Synonyms

dangerous, dicey, risky.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hairy

This term is often used to describe a challenging or frightening situation, usually involving some level of unpredictability or potential danger.

  • The climb up the mountain became really hairy as the weather worsened.
  • That was a really hairy moment when the car skidded on the ice.
risky

This word is used to describe situations, actions, or decisions that involve a recognizable chance of loss, harm, or danger. Frequently used in financial, physical, or adventurous contexts.

  • Skydiving is a risky sport if you're not properly trained.
  • That investment seems too risky for someone with limited funds.
dangerous

This is a general term for anything that poses a threat to safety or well-being. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from physical danger to risky financial decisions.

  • Swimming in that river can be dangerous because of strong currents.
  • It's dangerous to invest all your money in one stock.
dicey

Use this term informally to describe a situation that is unpredictable and potentially problematic. It can imply a bit of risk and uncertainty but often used in a more light-hearted or casual manner.

  • Taking the shortcut through the alley seems a bit dicey.
  • Investing in that startup is definitely a dicey move.

Examples of usage

  • It's a bit of a hairy situation.
  • I had a hairy moment when the car skidded.

Translations

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

Origin of 'hairy'

The word 'hairy' originated from the Old English word 'hวฃr', which meant 'hair'. Over time, it evolved into 'hairy' in Middle English. The use of 'hairy' to describe something covered in hair has been prevalent in English language for centuries, while the informal use to describe a risky situation emerged in the mid-20th century.


See also: hair, hairband, hairbrush, hairdresser, hairline, hairpiece, hairpin, hairs, hairstylist.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,677, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.