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Mohawk: meaning, definitions and examples

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mohawk

 

[ ˈmoʊhɔːk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

hairstyle, culture

A mohawk is a hairstyle characterized by a strip of longer hair in the center of the head, with the sides shaved or very short. This style was traditionally associated with the Mohawk tribe of Native Americans but has since been adopted in various subcultures, especially in punk rock. It is often seen as a symbol of rebellion or non-conformity.

Synonyms

crest, hawk, spike

Examples of usage

  • He styled his hair into a mohawk for the concert.
  • The punk band member had a vivid green mohawk.
  • She decided to shave her sides and keep a mohawk for the summer.
  • The mohawk hairstyle became popular in the punk culture of the 1970s.

Etymology

The term 'mohawk' originates from the name of the Mohawk people, one of the American Indian tribes that make up the Iroquois Confederacy. In the early 19th century, the word began to be used more broadly to describe the distinctive hairstyle that the Mohawk tribe members sometimes wore. The mohawk hairstyle itself has roots in various indigenous cultures but gained popular traction in the 1970s punk rock scene as a statement of individuality and defiance against mainstream norms. As punk culture evolved, the mohawk became iconic, often being associated with rebellion, artistic expression, and youth subcultures. Today, the mohawk is recognized globally and has been adapted in countless styles and colors, while still retaining its original connotation of non-conformity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,504, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.