Hirsute: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a more formal or scientific context to describe someone or something that is unusually hairy.

• The biologist noted the hirsute nature of the primate.
• He had a hirsute chest, which he often showed off at the beach.

Commonly used in everyday language to describe something or someone with a lot of hair. Can also refer to a difficult or frightening situation.

• She has a very hairy cat that sheds a lot.
• The road up the mountain was quite hairy, especially in bad weather.

A medical term used to describe excessive hair growth in women in areas where hair is usually minimal. Can carry a negative connotation for those affected by the condition.

• She consulted her endocrinologist for her hirsutism.
• Hirsutism can be caused by hormonal imbalances and often requires medical treatment.

Rarely used and mostly found in medical or scientific texts to describe the state of being covered with coarse, rough hair.

• The doctor examined the patient's hirsutal condition.
• Research on the hirsutal tendencies of certain mammals was conducted.