curly

adjective

ˈkər-lē How to pronounce curly (audio)
Definition of curlynext
as in curled
forming or styled into loops the boy's naturally curly locks

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of curly At the film’s Shanghai premiere, her short, curly cut was replaced with long, straight locks and choppy baby bangs. — Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026 Mannequin heads stare at you through the storefront window, each topped with a wildly unique hairpiece – one with long, curly, bubblegum pink locks; another with a bright orange bob. — Usa Today Network, USA Today, 29 July 2026 Valenti provided a crucial description of her attacker — a White male in his 30s with curly dark hair. — Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 29 July 2026 This look creates a faux curtain bang effect and can look great styled straight or curly. — Emma Ashe, Southern Living, 26 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for curly
Recent Examples of Synonyms for curly
  1. curled
  2. wavy
Adjective
  • The rounded shape of the braids paired with the curled bun in the back makes this look ooze romance.
    — Sunnah Rasheed, InStyle, 23 July 2026
  • Look in curled leaves that often contain webs with the larva stages — often called worms.
    — Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2026
Definition of curled
Adjective
  • The edges of the chanterelle are often wavy and scalloped rather than round.
    — Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 6 Aug. 2026
  • There’s something about a wavy motif that feels right at home in a kids’ room.
    — Vy Yang, Architectural Digest, 31 July 2026
Definition of wavy

Browse Nearby Words

curl up
curly
curmudgeon
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Cite this Entry

“Curly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/curly. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on curly

Nglish: Translation of curly for Spanish Speakers

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