catagen

noun cat·a·gen \ ˈka-tə-ˌjen \

Definition of catagen

: a short transitional phase of the hair growth cycle between anagen and telogen that usually lasts between 10 to 20 days and during which the lower portion of the hair follicle regresses and hair growth ends

In catagen, the hair follicle stops producing the fiber and regresses, shrinking dramatically.
—Damaris Christensen

Origin and Etymology of catagen

cata- + -gen

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1926

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

catagen

noun cat·a·gen \ ˈka-tə-ˌjen \

medical Definition of catagen

: a short transition phase of the hair growth cycle in which hair growth ends and the resting phase begins

Anagen is followed by a regressive stage called catagen, of about two to three weeks, then a resting stage, telogen, of about three months.
—C. Claiborne Ray, The New York Times, 29 June 2010