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

The hairs were long, black, and curly like the pubes of a buffalo. — Literary Hub, 9 Sep. 2026

But those with curly hair might wash it much less frequently. — Alexandra Frost, USA Today, 9 Sep. 2026

Irish curls feature a mix of straight and curly hair textures, often with hidden curls. — Elise Tabin, InStyle, 6 Sep. 2026

Its flat design is convenient, secure, and even approved by curly-haired shoppers with a tight, coily texture. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Sep. 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