Shave: meaning, definitions and examples
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shave
[ʃeɪv ]
Definitions
personal care
To remove hair from the body using a razor or other sharp tool. Shaving is a common practice for both men and women to achieve a smooth skin surface.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shave |
See first instance in the list. |
| trim |
Used when cutting something to make it shorter or tidier, often hair or nails.
|
| groom |
Used when discussing taking care of one’s appearance by trimming or arranging hair, often used for both people and animals.
|
| scrape |
Used for removing something from a surface harshly or roughly. It can have a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- I need to shave my beard before the job interview.
- She shaves her legs regularly to keep them smooth.
- He prefers shaving with a traditional razor rather than an electric one.
personal care
The act of removing hair from the body using a razor or other sharp tool. Shaving can be done on various body parts such as the face, legs, or underarms.
Synonyms
depilation, hair removal, shaving off.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shave |
Commonly used to describe the act of removing hair from the face or body using a razor or other sharp instrument. Usually refers to a daily or routine grooming activity, especially for facial hair.
|
| hair removal |
A general term that covers all kinds of methods for eliminating hair, including temporary and permanent techniques. It can refer to shaving, waxing, laser treatment, etc.
|
| shaving off |
This phrase may suggest a more significant act of removing hair, often implying cutting off a large quantity at once or changing one's appearance drastically. Sometimes it can have a slightly informal or casual tone.
|
| depilation |
This term is often used in a more clinical or technical context, referring to the removal of hair, particularly temporary methods like using a depilatory cream, waxing, or sugaring.
|
Examples of usage
- She forgot to buy shaving cream for her morning shave.
- After the accident, he had to undergo a clean shave to allow the wounds to heal properly.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Ancient Egyptians used sharpened stones and sea shells to shave in 3000 BC, highlighting the long history of shaving practices.
- The first metal razors were made of bronze and found in ancient tombs, showing shaving as a sign of cleanliness and social status.
- In ancient Rome, men shaved their beards frequently, while women sometimes removed body hair, marking cultural differences in grooming.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, a clean-shaven face has been associated with professionalism and sophistication.
- Certain religious practices like Sikhism encourage unshaven hair as a symbol of respect for God's creation.
- Shaving styles can reflect personal identity, such as the trendy 'hipster' mustaches or the clean-cut corporate look.
Science
- Shaving involves cutting hair at the surface without removing the hair follicle, which allows it to grow back quickly.
- The human hair grows about half an inch per month, so freshly shaved hair will reappear in a short period.
- Dermatologists recommend proper techniques and products post-shaving to prevent skin irritation or ingrown hairs.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often depict shaving as an everyday ritual, symbolizing maturity or preparing for a significant event.
- Popular shaving advertisements in the 20th century shifted from a focus on utility to a message of style and personal grooming.
- Many comedians use shaving as a comedic device, exaggerating the challenges or mishaps associated with the task.
Psychology
- Personal grooming habits, including shaving, can affect self-esteem and confidence, leading to a feeling of professional readiness.
- Studies show that how individuals groom themselves can influence others' perceptions of their social status and credibility.
- Rituals around shaving can induce relaxation and mindfulness, providing a moment of personal care in a busy day.
Translations
Translations of the word "shave" in other languages:
🇵🇹 barbear
🇮🇳 दाढ़ी बनाना
🇩🇪 rasieren
🇮🇩 mencukur
🇺🇦 голитися
🇵🇱 golić
🇯🇵 剃る (そる)
🇫🇷 raser
🇪🇸 afeitar
🇹🇷 tıraş olmak
🇰🇷 면도하다 (myeondohada)
🇸🇦 حلق (halaq)
🇨🇿 holit se
🇸🇰 holiť sa
🇨🇳 剃 (tì)
🇸🇮 briti se
🇮🇸 raka sig
🇰🇿 қырыну
🇬🇪 გაპარსვა (gaparsva)
🇦🇿 qırxmaq
🇲🇽 afeitar