hairier; hairiest
Synonyms of hairynext
1
a
: covered with hair or hairlike material
b
: having a downy fuzz on the stems and leaves
2
: made of or resembling hair
3
a
: tending to cause nervous tension (as from danger)
a hairy adventure
b
: difficult to deal with or comprehend
a hairy math problem
hairiness noun

Examples of hairy in a Sentence

The taxi ride got a little hairy. When the deadline approaches, things can get a little hairy.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ideal for deshedding and extra hairy pets. Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 20 Feb. 2026 Why their way of being has created controversy Those who identify themselves as therians wear attire and accessories such as animal masks; gloves and socks in the shape of hairy paws with claws; collars and leashes. Paula Soria, AZCentral.com, 17 Feb. 2026 Played by more than ten babies at various ages, young Kuula is an unusual child, hairy and large for his age, with an early appetite for meat and a curiously harsh quality to his bawling. Catherine Bray, Variety, 14 Feb. 2026 Since the hairy ultimatum, Bryant is finally making dunks for the Spurs while receiving more playing time during a promising first season. Scott Phillips, New York Times, 14 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hairy

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of hairy was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hairy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hairy. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

hairy

adjective
ˈha(ə)r-ē How to pronounce hairy (audio)
ˈhe(ə)r-
hairier; hairiest
1
: bearing or covered with or as if with hair
2
: made of or resembling hair
3
a
: causing excitement (as from danger)
a hairy adventure
b
: difficult to deal with or understand
a hairy math problem
hairiness noun

Medical Definition

hairy

adjective
hairier; hairiest
1
: covered with hair or hairlike material
2
: made of or resembling hair
hairiness noun

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