cowlick

noun

cow·​lick ˈkau̇-ˌlik 

: a lock or tuft of hair growing in a different direction from the rest of the hair

Examples of cowlick in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Their branches stretch in all directions like unruly cowlicks. — Maggie Heyn Richardson, Southern Living, 14 Aug. 2025

Most will assume that their hairline cowlick prohibits certain hairstyles. — Megan Decker, refinery29.com, 31 Jan. 2025

Families pile in with kids decked out in their Sunday best — bows in their hair, fluffy dresses, cowlicks gelled down. — Elizabeth Hernandez, Denver Post, 26 Apr. 2026

Graham’s features a swooshing, era-appropriate parting that mimics her own cowlick, as well as a retro teardrop bun. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 16 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cowlick

noun

cow·​lick ˈkau̇-ˌlik 

: a lock or bunch of hair that grows in a different direction from the rest of the hair and cannot be made to lie flat