curly

adjective

ˈkər-lē 

curlier; curliest

1

: tending to curl

also : having curls

curly hair

2

: having the grain composed of fibers that undulate without crossing and that often form alternating light and dark lines

curly maple

curliness noun

Synonyms of curly

• curled
• wavy

Examples of curly in a Sentence

She has curly hair and blue eyes.

The dog's tail is curly.

Recent Examples on the Web

Best leave-in treatment Whether your hair is straight, curly, or wavy, this leave-in scalp treatment is perfect for delivering lasting itch relief and rich hydration to strands. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 July 2026

For fine hair argan oil is ideal, while thick hair and curly and coily hair work better with heavier oils like castor or coconut oil. — Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 5 July 2026

Another sign that your hardneck variety is ready for harvest is paying attention to the garlic scapes, which are the long, curly shoots. — Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026

Her signature curly locks were down and perfectly coifed despite the intense heat the day brought. — Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 4 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing curly

• curly brace
• curly bracket
• curly-coated retriever
• curly endive
• curly top

Rhymes for curly

• burley
• burly
• girlie
• girly
• hurly
• pearly
• surly

Kids Definition

curly

adjective

ˈkər-lē 

curlier; curliest

: tending to curl

also : having curls

curly hair

curliness noun