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 performance opens with Bachzetsis wearing a shiny, form-fitting bodysuit and fishing waders, her face covered by a wig of long, curly red hair. —Jana Baumann, Artforum, 1 Dec. 2025

Genetics also play a role, with wavy, curly, and coily hair more prone to frizz due to their uneven cuticle structure. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 26 Nov. 2025

Many Arby’s locations will be serving its signature roast beef sandwiches and curly fries on Thursday. —Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2025

This state of the art, cordless straightener can style all hair types—including curly and coily, and works quickly with a 30 minute run time. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 26 Nov. 2025

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